As we approach Christmas, classrooms across Ireland fill with warmth, decorations, and excitement for the holidays. It’s a time for joy, family, and togetherness, a season that reminds us what “home” really means.
But this year, as we decorate and plan school concerts, it is important to remember that not every child in Ireland has a home to return to.
A Growing Crisis in 2025
It’s not right that over 5,000 children don’t have a home. Children, with their parents or carers are living day-to-day in temporary or emergency accommodation such as hotels or B&Bs.
That’s the equivalent of more than 220 school classrooms full of children who don’t have a permanent place to call home. Their toys are packed in bags, their homework is done on hotel beds, and their futures are made uncertain by the instability around them.
This is the reality that Focus Ireland’s campaign “No Child Without a Home” wants to change.
What Homelessness Means for a Child
Being without a home affects every part of a child’s life:
• Education: Constant moves make it hard to stay in the same school or keep up with lessons.
• Friendships: Children often lose touch with classmates or feel isolated.
• Well-being: Living in crowded or temporary conditions can cause stress, tiredness, and anxiety.
Homelessness doesn’t just take away a roof, it takes away a sense of safety and belonging. It steals a part of childhood that every child should have.
What Can We Do at Christmas?
This Christmas, students across Ireland can help make sure no child is without a home. Here’s how your class or school can get involved:
🎄 Wear your brightest Christmas jumper and donate to Focus Ireland.
🎶 Sing carols or perform in a concert to raise awareness and funds.
🍰 Host a bake sale, sweet treats that make a real difference.
💡 Sign the Petition – No Child Without A Home
Every action, big or small, helps bring hope and warmth to children and families this Christmas. Together, we can make sure there’s No Child Without a Home.
👉 Find out more or set up your school’s fundraiser at www.focusireland.ie/this-christmas-help-to-end-child-homelessness-for-good/
