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Ritchie helps kick off charity football tournament

Friday, 27 November 2009

Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie today helped raise awareness of the plight of homeless people in Northern Ireland at a special football tournament.

The Minister officially kicked off the charity event, which is organised annually by the Council for Homeless Northern Ireland (CHNI), at the Brooke Activity Centre in Lisburn. The event, which will see 24 teams take part, is one of a number taking place as part of Homelessness Awareness Week, which runs from 27 November- 5 December 2009.

Attending the event, Minister Ritchie said: “Homelessness is a huge issue for my Department and I welcomethe opportunity to be here today to reaffirm my support for the services that are provided for homeless people.

“At present there is a massive shortfall in capital funding needed for housing. However, I have ensured that the Supporting People fund continues to provides excellent services to those vulnerable people who most need it.

“This is a particularly difficult time of year for those who find themselves homeless. I have made it clear that I want to champion the rights of the vulnerable members of our society and to do everything possible to ensure that they have the same opportunities as everyone else.

Paying tribute to all those taking part, Minister Ritchie added: “Joining you at this event has given me the opportunity to see so many organisations, volunteers, staff and tenants participating in what I hope will be an enjoyable tournament. I wish all of you good luck.”

Notes to editors:

  1. The purpose of the CHNI event is to raise awareness about homelessness and is part of Homelessness Awareness Week 2009 which runs from 27 November– 5 December 2009.
  2. The teams taking part are Hosford House, SHAC, Must Hostel, Ballymena Simon Community, Multidisciplinary Homeless Support Team, Mulholland Aftercare Services, Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Homecare Support Services, Shelter NI, Supporting People, Depaul Ireland, Ark Housing Association, Include Youth, Poleglass Bytes, Belfast Foyer Bytes, Salvation Army, Dungannon Housing Association, Lighthouse Hostel, Welcome Organisation and Flax Foyer.
  3. Brooke Activity Centre has hosted the CHNI Charity Cup for the past three years.
  4. Lisburn City Council and the Irish Football Association are sponsoring the CHNI Charity Cup 2009.
  5. For further information, please contact Ciara McGuigan at DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9497. Out of hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number
  6. 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.