An Ennis woman who spent five years of her life sleeping on the streets is now appealing for support to enhance her mobile shower service for homeless people in the county town.
It comes as ‘The Mobile Shower for Homeless Rough Sleepers’ has this week officially resumed operations for 2026.
The sound of water hitting the canvas of the mobile tented unit in Friar’s Walk Bus Park is offering a warm wash and dignity to Clare’s homeless community.
The basic operation consists of a shower unit, water pump, gas canister and a waterproof tent capable of withstanding 65KM/H winds.
A former service user who was homeless in Ennis for over 18 months and is now volunteering says without it, homeless people would basically be prevented from interacting with the public.
The Mobile Shower for Homeless Rough Sleepers first came into action last August after years of campaigning and fundraising by organiser Fiona Faulkes.
Currently the service is intended to operate every Monday and Wednesday, weather permitting, and during school hours.
Anyone presenting under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not permitted to use the service, but all users do receive a care package of new socks and underpants.
The service initially cost €1,185 to set up, which was largely crowdfunded, however the day to day running costs estimated to be at least €26 are covered entirely by Fiona.
She’s hoping to raise more funds to source a trailer that will enhance privacy and allow the facility to be extended to more areas throughout the county.
Listen to the full interview here
