Sister Stanislaus Kennedy explains what will be different about the new organisation Focus Point.
Now known as Focus Ireland, Focus Point was founded in 1985 to help the homeless. It grew from a research project conducted by its director, Sister Stanislaus Kennedy. She explains the background to the setting up of the organisation to 'Morning Ireland'.
I think in general, it can be said that people think homeless people need a place to sleep, so they provide a refuge or a hostel for them. We're interested in homeless people living and enabling them to live. In other words, we're interested in getting people out of the cycle of homelessness as early as possible.
Unlike other organisations, Focus Point aims to provide an information centre for homeless people and a 24-hour emergency helpline. There will be hospitality available, with low cost good food and two outreach workers on the streets at night.
'Morning Ireland' broadcast on 23 September 1985. The presenter is David Davin Power.
