Children’s experiences of homelessness in Limerick highlighted in new Focus Ireland and ABC Start Right book

Focus Ireland and Tusla’s Parenting Support Champions Committee, ABC Start Right have launched a powerful new children’s book, “It’s Not Always Forever – The Story of Children’s Experiences of Homelessness”, at the Woodlands House Hotel in Adare. Photographed at the event are Pat Dennigan, CEO, FOCUS Ireland with authors Lauren Egan, Patrice Kelleher and Sandra Krzysiak. Photograph: Liam Burke/Press 22

A new book with Focus Ireland and ABC Start Right, ‘It’s Not Always Forever’, shines a light on children’s experiences of homelessness in Limerick

Focus Ireland and Tusla’s Parenting Support Champions Committee, ABC Start Right, have today launched a powerful new children’s book, “It’s Not Always Forever – The Story of Children’s Experiences of Homelessness”, at the Woodlands House Hotel in Adare.

The book, written by Focus Ireland staff and illustrated by children who have experienced homelessness, gives voice to the often-unheard stories of young people living in emergency accommodation. Through poetry, drawings, and reflections, the book captures the emotional journey of children navigating the uncertainty and upheaval of homelessness—while also highlighting their resilience, creativity, and hope.

Speaking at the launch, Focus Ireland CEO Pat Dennigan said, “This book is a window into the hearts and minds of children who have endured the trauma of losing their home. It reminds us that homelessness is not just a housing issue—it’s a childhood issue. Right now, over 5,000 children are living in emergency accommodation across Ireland, including more than 250 children in the Midwest region. These are not just statistics. These are children who deserve safety, stability, and a voice. This book gives them that voice—and challenges all of us to listen and act.”

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The publication is the result of a collaboration between Focus Ireland’s Childers Road Family Initiative (CRFI) in Limerick, Tusla’s Parenting Support Champions Committee and ABC Start Right. Founded in 2017 CRFI provides vital support to families and children living in emergency accommodation, offering case management and child-centred services to help families move forward.

Patrice Kelleher, Assistant Project Leader at CRFI and one of the book’s authors, said, “This book is a celebration of the courage and creativity of the children we work with every day. It was important to us that their voices were heard—not just by professionals, but by the wider public. The children’s words and illustrations are honest, moving, and powerful. They speak of fear, confusion, and sadness—but also of hope, love, and the dream of a home. We are incredibly proud of them.”

The launch event brought together families, frontline staff, and local stakeholders to recognise the children and parents who contributed to the book. Copies of the book were distributed on the day, and a recorded message from one of the young contributors was shared with attendees. The Woodlands House Hotel has been a valued supporter of Focus Ireland’s services in Limerick over the years, including their generous contribution to the charity’s annual Christmas Toy Drive.

“It’s Not Always Forever” is a reminder that while homelessness can be a deeply traumatic experience, it does not define a child’s future. With the right support, families can and do move on to secure homes—and children can thrive.