Ireland’s homelessness crisis has reached a devastating new peak with 14,864 people recorded as homeless at the end of 2024 – including over 5,000 children. The figures represent a 12 percent increase in just one year and paint a grim picture of a nation struggling to provide even the most basic human need – a secure place to live.
These are the findings of Focus Ireland’s 2024 annual report which warns that Ireland is now living through one of the worst years on record for homelessness.
Yet amid this growing national crisis the charity has reported a small but significant achievement – supporting 1,209 households out of homelessness in 2024, the highest number in its history. This marks a 10 percent increase on the previous year and highlights what can be achieved through dedicated frontline work partnerships and community support.
In Wexford, Focus Ireland played a central role in tackling the crisis on the ground. Through its aftercare programme the organisation provided support to 104 young people across Wexford and the Southeast who had left state care. These young adults were given help to build independent lives through housing skills mental health support and training.
Meanwhile the Housing First programme in Wexford supported 79 households in 2024 offering permanent housing alongside wraparound services. Of these households 68 tenancies were successfully sustained. Supports included daily home visits tenancy management personal care advice and even deep cleaning services.
One local success story saw a formerly homeless individual find work through a community employment scheme while studying horticulture – showing how secure housing can provide a stable path out of crisis.
Despite these successes Focus Ireland is clear – much more is needed. CEO Pat Denigan said the upcoming government housing and homelessness strategy due to be released in late September must deliver a radical reset.
Founder Sister Stan Kennedy was even more direct in her criticism.
She said homelessness is not inevitable. It is the result of political choices. “We know what works – prevention support social housing – but we are failing to act” she warned. “We cannot allow another year where record numbers of children grow up without a home.”
The full Focus Ireland 2024 Annual Report is now available at focusireland.ie.