Service for homeless families in Belfast celebrates 10 year anniversary

A charity scheme which has helped more than 200 families out of homelessness is celebrating a decade of success.

De Paul's Mater Dei service was launched in 2006 and has helped provide accommodation for almost 300 people.

It offers 13 self contained apartments to families in trouble, and is one of two projects supported by the charity.

Most of the families who work with the organisation are single-parent households with 26 babies born in the service in the last decade.

Kerry Anthony MBE, CEO of Depaul, said:

“At Mater Dei, not only do we provide accommodation for homeless families; we also offer them the tools and supports to address their needs, access more permanent accommodation and leave the label of homelessness behind.

“We encourage all of our residents to engage in local events and activities, and the support of the community is fundamental.

 “When families move on from Mater Dei, they are now able to access Depaul’s Family Floating Support Service, where they are provided with advice and guidance in their new homes.

“This is essential to help families sustain their tenancies and re-integrate into the community.”