The Pat Kenny Show There is no single story for those sleeping rough at Christmas
Dec 24, 2025
Alice Leahy, founder of the Alice Leahy Trust, reflects on her 50 years of service to the homeless in Ireland. She discusses the unique challenges faced by those sleeping rough during Christmas, including reasons many avoid shelters. Alice shares touching stories of isolation and the small comforts that mean the most. She critiques the excessive focus on food during the holidays, contrasting it with the emotional pain of immigrants missing their families. Throughout, she highlights the importance of public support and personal connections.
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Diverse People, Diverse Stories
- Alice Leahy describes meeting 13 people from different countries at the centre on Christmas morning.
- She recounts individual stories showing varied reasons they sleep rough and why some refuse hostel stays.
Recovery Shapes Shelter Choices
- Alice tells of an Irish man five months sober who will take food but avoid staying where there is drink.
- His choice shows how addiction recovery shapes where people will accept shelter.
Pride And Isolation On The Streets
- Alice describes a man who prefers Grafton Street's buzz and refuses handouts despite needing basics.
- His isolation and pride illustrate why some sleeping rough won't accept charity.