‘’I was homeless, and I had no hope…
I wanted to live, but I didn’t know how.”
These powerful words come directly from Derek, a resident at our Clonskeagh accommodation. When Derek first came to Dublin Simon Community, he was trapped in a cycle of homelessness and addiction. He slept rough at bus stops and Luas stations, barely holding onto his job. Each move between emergency accommodation would trigger him to start drinking again.
“I was ready to give up hope. I had given up, I had genuinely given up on everything.”
At Clonskeagh House, Derek found more than just recovery—he found stability, comfort, and the security he needed to heal. With the guidance and support of the incredible staff, he is learning how to navigate life’s challenges, respond rather than react, and build the resilience to grow—personally, mentally, and spiritually.
“I’ve been reborn. I’m someone again and I’ve my integrity and dignity back because kind humans, “fine souls” donors who give so much so that I could get a new beginning and step out of the darkness safely, securely, and comfortably.“
Will you help give people like Derek a second chance?
Derek describes donors like you as “fine souls” who have given him back his integrity and dignity, allowing him to step out of darkness.
A donation today can allow us to provide supports such as a warm bed in our services, counselling sessions to help ease the pain, and support to rebuild a life.
YES! I want to help give someone like Derek a second chance.
Derek's story in his own words
In this video Derek talks about his journey out of addiction and plans for the future. He now has a new outlook on life and is excited to move forward with this second chance.
“I hope to continue my journey in the near future to the next stage, my own home or down south.
Thank you because I know today, I’m living and not just existing anymore.”
“Whenever I’ve moved hostels while homeless, it was the fear of the unknown that would bring my alcoholism and addictions roaring to the front, out of control.”
