Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has allocated a £150,000 goodwill grant to deliver festive dinners and small gifts for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

The announcement was made during Homeless Awareness Week, a time the Minister highlighted as critical for recognising the human element behind the statistics.

Minister Lyons stated: "Unfortunately, some people will experience homelessness this Christmas. This is the time to remember that behind every statistic is a person struggling to find a safe and secure place to call home. Now is the time to 'See the person', the theme of this year's Homeless Awareness Week."

The Minister acknowledged the continuous and tireless efforts of charities and partners, particularly during the holiday season. He added that while he has made several funding announcements this year to address the wider issue of homelessness, "there is still more work to be done. I hope this goodwill grant will bring some festive cheer into the lives of people who might otherwise go without during the Christmas period." The funds will be channelled through the charity Homeless Connect for distribution to local homelessness service providers. This money is earmarked for facilitating social events, such as communal Christmas dinners, and for purchasing small gifts for those supported by the providers.

Nicole Lappin, Chair of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, emphasised that support for those experiencing homelessness is "vital all year round. However, the challenges of being homeless can be exacerbated at Christmas. This goodwill grant will help to provide that extra bit of support that can mean so much."

Echoing the theme, Nicola McCrudden, Chief Executive of Homeless Connect, said: "Behind every statistic is a human story and during Homelessness Awareness Week we are reminding people to 'See the Person'. As we work to address the wider structural issues, we must never lose sight of the people affected by homelessness – their hopes, their struggles and their strengths."

Ms. McCrudden confirmed that the funding "will provide a meaningful lift for thousands of adults and children experiencing homelessness over the festive period, ensuring they feel seen, valued and supported at a time when loneliness and hardship can hit hardest."