The History of Dundalk Simon Community
Since 1973, Dundalk Simon Community has offered opportunity and hope to local people. As the largest organisation serving those at-risk and homeless in the north-east of Ireland, Dundalk Simon Community changes lives by providing a wide range of services and support.
1973
Dundalk Simon was founded on January 31st 1973 on the caring principles laid down by Anton Wallich-Clifford. A soup run was initiated which operated for six months. In September 1973 a small two room premises on Francis Street was opened as a Friendship Centre, proving an evening meal and a place for conversation for people who were homeless in the town.
1974
In January 1974, overnight accommodation was provided at the centre for five men.
1975
In January 1975, a £7,000 loan was secured to buy a ten-roomed house in Barrack Street (Sunnyside House).
1976
Finances were a key concern, prompting the opening of the shop in 1976, still situated in Yorke Street today.
1995
In 1995 Sunnyside House was completely redesigned and now houses our 24/7 emergency accommodation project and crisis shelter. To complement the work of Sunnyside House we opened.
2002
The Crescent Project in 2002 as a residential project specifically dedicated to working with young men with a learning disability who were at risk of homelessness.
2006
Our Daycentre at Seatown House opened in 2006, to offer support to the growing number of former residents now living independently in Dundalk.
2013
Since 2013 we have been registered as an approved housing body providing housing for homeless people with 5 social care houses and 12 transitional housing units in current stock.
More than a place to stay, today we provide 24/7 emergency accommodation, crisis shelter, transitional and social housing, along with comprehensive day centre services