Galway Simon Community Wins Public Choice Award for Housing Innovation

BREAKING NEWS: Galway Simon Community has just been awarded the prestigious Public Choice Award at the ICSH Community Housing Awards for its transformative housing project, Sómas. This significant recognition highlights a major step forward in community housing efforts in Galway City.

The Sómas initiative features 10 high-quality, A-rated one-bedroom apartments built on a previously derelict site. Specifically designed for older adults and individuals with reduced mobility, these homes cater to those on the social housing waiting list, addressing urgent housing needs in the community.

Each apartment is equipped with universal access features, including level entry, a lift, accessible bathrooms, and wide hallways and doors. This project not only tackles issues of dereliction and vacancy but also fosters the creation of compact, connected, and age-friendly communities, enabling residents to live safely and independently.

The ICSH Community Housing Awards, organized by the Irish Council for Social Housing, celebrate innovation and sustainability in public and community housing. This year, the awards spotlighted projects that make a real difference in local communities.

In addition to the Galway Simon Community’s win, Galway County Council also secured recognition, winning the Building Communities category for the Tobar Mhuire regeneration project in Ahascragh. This showcases the ongoing commitment of local authorities to enhance living conditions and promote sustainable community development.

As these developments unfold, they signify a growing recognition of the importance of accessible housing solutions in Ireland. The efforts of the Galway Simon Community and other local organizations are critical as they work to alleviate homelessness and improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations.

Stay tuned for more updates as the impact of these awards continues to resonate throughout Galway City and beyond.