ONE appeal set to house veterans

Cork volunteers will on October 21 collect street donations as the veterans’ charity ONE announces a major expansion in its services.

Volunteers from ONE (Óglaigh Náisiúnta Na hÉireann, the Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel) will collect donations on the streets of Cork, Mallow and Kinsale as part of the veterans’ charity’s annual Fuschia Appeal.

The charity appeal helps to fund support services for Irish veterans, and to remember those who have served our country, both at home and abroad.

Founded in 1951, ONE offers housing, professional counselling, and support services to homeless and struggling veterans.

Following what it says has been an increased rise in demand for its services, the charity has announced plans for a major expansion of its veteran homes and mental health support services.

ONE intends to expand its services by 56% over the coming three years, offering an increase in accommodation and additional mental health support for a growing number of at-risk veterans.

The expansion of professional services will include the provision of five new veteran homes, the launch of a 24/7 Mental Health Support Line, as well as an increase from three to seven in the number of counsellors the charity employs.

The charity says 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, marking a significant increase from its 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 its annual Fuchsia Appeal.

To date, the charity has helped more than 1,000 veterans out of homelessness, and 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.

Donations to the 2023 Fuchsia Appeal can be made at one-veterans.org.