There has been widespread welcome for a rescue package put together to save a drop-in centre for Derry’s “on-street drinkers” from closure.
The future of the Foyle Haven in John Street had been in doubt over a lack of funding, with up to 11 jobs at risk.
However, funding has now been secured for a rescue package with no redundancies required.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Elisha McCallion, said she was “delighted” at the news.
Cllr McCallion, who has led the campaign to source funding for the organisation by getting key statutory agencies together, said: "The joined up collaborative approach was key to securing the funding and I extend my thanks to all the agencies who have contributed financially to provide a rescue package for the service.
"I will continue to work closely with the agencies including the Western Trust and the Public Health Agency to look at sourcing funding that will secure long-term sustainability of the service.
“I am delighted that the need for this essential service has been acknowledged by the various agencies.
“I have been working with Foyle Haven and the key agencies to do what I could to highlight the good work that they do.
“It’s imperative that we work collectively to ensure that we don’t arrive at this situation next year and that a long term solution is found that will secure Foyle Haven’s future for many years to come.
"Having been in contact with UNISON this morning they have confirmed that after speaking to De Paul that there will be no redundancies required at the Foyle Haven as a result of this outcome."
SDLP leader on the Council, Cllr Martin Reilly, who had met staff from the threatened charity with Foyle MLAs Colum Eastwood, Mark H Durkan and Gerard Diver to discuss the urgent need to source alternative funding,:welcomed what he described as the “positive series of discussions” convened by Council with statutory agencies to help this worthy charity which provides a vital service in our city.
He added: “Foyle Haven provides a service which cuts across a range of government departments and this funding that has been secured will keep their doors open and allow time for the charity to explore further funding avenues.”
Photo shows one of the support rallies staged outside Foyle Haven.
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