New Noah At Ark Housing

Tidy

atest press release from Ark Housing, issued on Thursday, December 14th 2023…

Nearly five years ago, before becoming a local councillor and the current Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Aoife Flynn Kennedy took on the role of chairperson of Ark Housing.

With a career spanning 20 years in housing and disability, and qualifications in the area of addiction, social policy and housing, Aoife has led the expansion of Ark Housing and a full review of its governance and structures as the new Approved Housing Body Regulatory Authority (AHBRA) was established.

Reflecting on the last five years Aoife said, “Housing is a real issue affecting the lives of many, especially children. I wanted to be part of the solution, not just pointing out that there is an issue and taking no action. Words without action have no impact on our community.”

Aoife also commented on the exceptional volunteers and staff in Ark Housing who she stated are the backbone of the organisation. Over her period as Chair, Ark Housing has provided forever homes for an additional 81 adults and children in the community. Working in partnership with other organisations in the community, and ensuring strong tenancy sustainment, Ark Housing has never terminated a tenancy.

The charity is solely reliant on donations and income from its charity shop at Bray Recycling Centre to run its services and is not in receipt of state funding for running costs.

Patrick Higgins and Aoife Flynn Kennedy

Aoife stated, “Fundraising is a core function of the charity, ensuring that we operate in a transparent and sustainable manner is not only important to the Board but also a regulatory requirement.”

Aoife remains on the Board of Ark Housing to continue supporting its work. The new chairperson, Patrick Higgins, joined the board in May 2023 and looks forward to working with Aoife and volunteers, staff and other board members on the great work Ark Housing does, continuing to provides homes for those in need in Bray and North Wicklow.

Further information on Ark Housing and its services can be found on their website here.