The Irish Defence Forces have launched a clothing-based charity appeal to help Dublin's homeless veterans.
Oglaigh Naisiunta na hEireann, a charity that assists veterans following service, unveiled their camouflage clothing range 'Hope Couture' on 55 Grafton Street earlier this morning. The clothing reflects the harsh realities facing soldiers after they depart the Defence Forces, with the designs drawing on locations where former soldiers have been found sleeping rough in the city.
The public can donate to the campaign by scanning the QR code on clothing items, visible from the window. All proceeds will go towards providing safe housing for homeless veterans.
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Chief Executive of ONE Cormac Kirwan said: "The organisation helps veterans to get back on their feet by offering accommodation, mental health support, employment assistance, addiction counselling and peer support. We hope that this collection of unique camouflage streetwear will raise awareness around Irish veterans who are experiencing homelessness and give them the encouragement and resources they need to overcome its challenges."
The collection was commissioned by Irish designer Orla Langan and features several distinctive patterns, inspired by places such as Russell Street Bridge and Blessington Street Park. Three veterans, who were supported by ONE after leaving the defence forces, will play a central role in the campaign.
ONE has helped over 1,000 veterans out of homelessness since its inception in 1951. The organisation provides over 18,000 beds annually through its residential homes nationwide and is set to open a new facility in Cork in late 2023.
People can donate €4 to the cause by logging on to www.one-veterans.org/donate or texting VETERAN to 50300.
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