Depaul has been named as one of 50 global community organisations to receive a grant of $500,000 in catalytic funding as part of the Citi Foundation’s 2024 Global Innovation Challenge, which aims to support solutions that address homelessness. Supporting people experiencing homelessness across the Island of Ireland, Depaul supported over 10,000 people – including over 1,400 families – in 2023 as homelessness continued to reach unprecedented levels.
Compounded by the ongoing cost of living crisis, dwindling private rental accommodation, and a continued lack of development of social and affordable housing, Northern Ireland’s homelessness crisis has continued to deepen this year, with the number of households with homelessness status rising above 30,000 in June. Over the past year, the Depaul have showed dedication, resilience and innovation in the face of unprecedented needs and the changing face of homelessness across Northern Ireland.
Reflecting on Citi Foundation’s 2024 Global Innovation Challenge, Citi Belfast Site Head Peter Holden said, “In January 2024, the Citi Foundation issued its Global Innovation Challenge Request for Proposals and committed to grant a collective $25 million to 50 community organisations around the world who are advancing solutions to homelessness and are creating meaningful impact.
“We are delighted that Depaul is one of the three UK charities that have been awarded $500,000 to support individuals, families and communities locally. These funds will help to enhance the important work Depaul does to support those experiencing homelessness in Northern Ireland and across the Island of Ireland. Underpinning our ethos of ‘living locally, working globally,’ the Citi Belfast team have been inspired by Depaul’s work and have proudly committed to further strengthening our relationship through added volunteer support.”
Citi Belfast is committed to investing in local communities, working to catalyse positive social impact. Northern Ireland’s largest financial services employer, Citi has continuously worked to ensure that company policies are aligned with best practice, workplaces are accessible and welcoming, and that their culture enables people to come to work as their authentic self. Through Citi’s Global Community Day, Citi colleagues, friends, family, alumni, community partners and clients have served more than 5.5 million volunteer hours across over 90 countries and territories in over 450 cities. The volunteering events, connections made and stories shared each year are a celebration of the positive impact that can be made when individuals and organisations leverage their time, skills and talent.
