Photos: Andy Spearman.
On Monday, March 9, Drogheda Homeless Aid welcomed local representatives, community partners and service providers to its premises on North Strand to mark a major milestone for the organisation.
The event celebrated the receipt of two national and international awards recognising its work in tackling homelessness in the region.
Led by CEO Mandie Walsh and her team, Drogheda Homeless Aid has been recognised for its ongoing support of men experiencing homelessness in Drogheda and the wider area.
The organisation recently received the Corporate Vision Global Business Award for Best Regional Homelessness Reduction Initiative 2025 in the Leinster area, along with the Irish Enterprise Award for Best Homelessness Initiative 2026.
The awards acknowledge the exceptional commitment and compassion shown by the DHA team, which includes qualified service professionals and a large number of Community Employment participants who are currently training within the service and working towards their QQI qualifications.
Together, they provide vital support, care and pathways toward stability for the men who access Drogheda Homeless Aid’s services.
The event brought together representatives from across the local community and government to mark the achievement.
Those in attendance included Michelle Hall, Mayor of Drogheda; Hubert Murphy, CEO of Drogheda Chamber of Commerce; Catherine Lynch and Pauline Malone from Louth County Council’s Homeless Services; Councillor Anne Marie Ford of Louth County Council; Councillor Noel French of Meath County Council; and Meath County Council Leas Chathaoirleach Councillor Caroline O’Reilly.
Also present were Anne Marie and Keri Hamilton of Hamilton Interiors, along with members of the Drogheda Homeless Aid board, including Chair Paul Murphy and Cathal Thornton, who welcomed guests alongside CEO Mandie Walsh.
As well as marking the organisation’s recent awards, the event also introduced a new staff recognition initiative aimed at acknowledging the work and commitment of team members.
Suzie Darby was named Employee of the Month, while Sinéad Everitt and Orlagh Cooney received special recognition for their flexibility, teamwork and willingness to support other departments.
All three were recognised for going above and beyond in their work with service users.
Speaking at the event, CEO Mandie Walsh praised the team and the impact of their work.
These awards are a testament to the commitment of our staff, volunteers and CE participants who work tirelessly every day to support the men who come through our doors. We are incredibly proud of what the team has achieved together and grateful for the continued support of our partners, local authorities and community.
Drogheda Homeless Aid continues to play an important role in supporting people experiencing homelessness in the region, providing essential services, practical supports and pathways toward stability and independence.
