Charity appeals for new premises following fire

THE Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) is seeking a retail unit to replace its shop in Coolock Village Centre which was destroyed by fire in the early hours of last Monday week, September 4.

The fire caused some structural damage which means that it will be some time before the Vincent’s shop can reopen. 

The unit, operated by a full-time manager, with the support of three community scheme workers and approximately 40 volunteers, was one of the busiest in the SVP shops’ network in the Dublin area and will be a major loss to the community. 

Liam Casey, St Vincent de Paul East Region President, said: “We urgently need to find a replacement quickly as the loss of revenue is a blow to our ability to support those who seek our help. 

"The level of goodwill and offers of help from the local community which depended heavily on the invaluable service of the Vincent’s shop has been overwhelming.” 

While an alternative premises is being sought, donations can be left at St Vincent de Paul (SVP) shops in Fairview Strand, Kilbarrack, Killester and Malahide.

Meanwhile, anyone who can offer an alternative premises to SVP until the Coolock shop is able to reopen is asked to contact Mark O'Brien on 087-7762293.