On Monday morning, 9 February, more than 300 members of Limerick’s business community gathered at the Castletroy Park Hotel for the second NOVAS Business Breakfast. The sell-out event showed strong support for NOVAS services across the region.

Key Ingredients kindly sponsored the event. Throughout the morning, speakers highlighted the ongoing challenges of homelessness and addiction. They also outlined the vital work NOVAS carries out both locally and nationally.

Inspiring Guest Speaker Rachael Blackmore

Champion jockey Rachael Blackmore joined MC Gillian Barry for an engaging fireside chat. Their conversation entertained the audience and brought energy to the early start. Guests responded warmly to the honest and inspiring discussion.

Strong Community and Political Support

Several elected representatives attended the event. Among them were Deputy Conor Sheehan, Minister Kieran O’Donnell, TD Maurice Quinlivan and Cllr Peter Doyle.

Leah McMahon, Limerick Rose and NOVAS volunteer, also attended. She was joined by hurling legend Declan Hannon and many other supporters from the local community.

Supporting More Than 6,000 People Each Year

NOVAS, headquartered in Limerick City, supports more than 6,000 people across Ireland each year. The organisation delivers services throughout Limerick, the wider Mid-West region and Dublin.

These services include:

• Emergency homeless accommodation
• Social housing
• Family and child support services
• Recovery services
• Street outreach support

Appreciation from NOVAS CEO

NOVAS CEO Una Deasy thanked everyone who supported the breakfast. She expressed her appreciation for the “immense support and generosity” shown by attendees.

She paid special tribute to the organising committee volunteers who gave their time, expertise and energy to deliver the event. She also thanked MC Gillian Barry, Rachael Blackmore, Pat McDonagh and the staff at the Castletroy Park Hotel for their support.

Funding the Street Outreach Service

The event will fund the NOVAS Street Outreach Service. This volunteer-led team works in Limerick City every evening. Volunteers provide warm food, hot drinks, clothing and essential support to anyone in need.

NOVAS is currently seeking a new food partner to support this vital service. The organisation encourages local businesses to get in touch if they would like to get involved.

A Strong Show of Support

The Business Breakfast was a major success. It demonstrated the commitment of local businesses to tackling social issues and supporting some of the most vulnerable people in the community.