ONE (Óglaigh Náisiúnta Na hÉireann, the Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel) has announced plans to expand its Veteran Homes and Mental Health Support services, following a further rise in demand. The expansion of professional services, which will include the provision of five new veteran homes, the launch of a 24/7 Mental Health Support Line, as well as an increase in the number of Veteran Support Officers (counsellors) from three to seven, are all planned over the next three years, with the immediate launch of the 24/7 Support Line.
The announcement on Thursday last coincides with the launch of ONE’s 2023 Fuchsia Appeal, an annual event to help fund support services for Irish Veterans, and to remember those who have served our country, both at home and abroad. The launch was undertaken by Mitchelstown native, Defence Forces Chief of Staff Lt General Sean Clancy, alon with Secretary General of the Dept. of Defence Ms Jacqui McCrum and ONE’s National President Diarmuid Higgins (from Cork).
Founded in March 1951, ONE offers housing, professional counselling, and support services to homeless and struggling veterans.
In addition to the increase in accommodation and direct veteran support, the announcement also includes the commencement of academic qualitative research into veterans’ issues, in partnership with the Leopardstown Park Hospital Trust. The measures are in response to the rising number of veterans struggling with housing and mental health challenges. By 2026, ONE expects to provide 29,200 bed nights, increased from the current provision of 18,500.
With the increase in demand, the charity expects future running costs to rise over the next three years to €2 million per annum. A large portion of these costs are funded through public donations and various fundraising events held by ONE, including the annual Fuchsia Appeal.
The announcements are being made at a time of growing concern at the level of homelessness in Ireland. To date, ONE has helped more than 1,000 veterans out of homelessness. With the help and support that ONE provides, the organisation is able to ensure that 90% of those veterans can escape the cycle of homelessness and find permanent housing.
The annual Fuchsia Appeal was first launched in 2009 and serves as a key fundraiser for ONE’s essential services. The fuchsia was chosen as the fundraising emblem due to its presence across all of Ireland. The flower, commonly known as Deora Dé or God’s Tears, serves as a reminder of home for all service personnel. The Fuchsia Badge is now sold as part of the fundraising initiative and under the emblem is stamped the word ‘Cuimhnímis’ – ‘Remember Those Who Served’ in remembrance of those who have served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country.
STREET COLLECTIONS
ONE’s Cork City Branch members will be out fundraising on the streets of Mallow, Cork City and Kinsale, on Saturday, 21st Oct. Support appreciated.
