New kids’ home opens in Firhouse

A NEW children’s home has opened on the Southside.

Novas Bellevue Children’s Home and Haarlem Court apartment complex in Firhouse comprises eight two-bed units.

These are special needs social housing units for tenants coming off South Dublin County Council’s housing lists.

Some of the residents were formerly homeless, while others have children with special needs or have physical disabilities themselves.

Deputy Sean Crowe (SF) officially cut the red tape on the complex before Christmas.

 “I was delighted to be asked to open the complex,” Deputy Crowe said.

“The Bellevue Children’s Home is a service for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children entering the State. It is the only one of its kind in the country.

“Each year 70 to 80 unaccompanied minors enter the State seeking asylum and we are all aware of the horrific situation in the Mediterranean, where hundreds of children have died trying to acquire refuge in the EU.

“Ireland needs to play its part in providing refuge to children fleeing war, famine, and oppression, and these services show positive leadership from civil society.

“This service is a beacon of light for vulnerable people and it is a good news story that all the local and national politicians are extremely proud of.”

Deputy Crowe added: “Well done to everyone associated with this fantastic and much needed development.”

Novas Homeless Services set up its first operations in Ireland in 2002.

Funded by the HSE and the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government, it provides services for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Working with families, children and single adults who are disadvantaged or socially excluded, it offers client-centred services and promotes social justice.