Almost 30 staff from Galway accountancy firm DHKN took time off to help COPE Galway restore the garden and outside spaces of one of its accommodations for families in the city.
The family hub provides supported accommodation for up to 10 families who are without a home. The large outdoor area is used for play and relaxation area by the residents but was in need of some maintenance.
DHKN’s Volunteer Day team undertook the task of restoring the exterior of the house so it would be a more enjoyable space for its residents, and on a recent Thursday about 30 staff did just that.
They arrived with all of the equipment and supplies needed for the job, and spent hours cleaning, clearing, digging, planting and painting which transformed the grounds from an overgrown patch to a space where residents can play, relax or do some gardening in the newly installed beds or boxes.
George Alton, an Associate Director at DHKN, who led the DHKN team on the day, said: “This is the second year we’ve worked with COPE Galway on a project like this. The determination and hard work of our team was great to see, with the end result being a lovely garden for the families who stay here to enjoy over the coming summer months and beyond”.
“All of the team enjoyed helping out and we’re delighted with the outcome. We hope that the residents staying at this family home will benefit from the changes made.”
Mark Gibbs, Partner at DHKN said: “COPE Galway provide a fantastic service to many families, men and women in Galway and it is a privilege for all of us in DHKN to help support that effort in a very small way. The DHKN team had a wonderful day and we are all delighted with way the gardens looked at the end of the day.
Martin Naarendorp, Project Worker at the Family Hub said, “The families were delighted with the transformation of our garden. They have great plans for it and are looking forward to growing fresh ingredients for the meals they enjoy preparing! Families often have to stay here for extended periods due to the housing crisis. Having a beautiful garden like this, where the children can play and adults can relax, goes a long way towards making them feel comfortable and welcome. They’re so happy with the garden now and we’re all very thankful to the team that made it happen!”
For more information about DHKN and how we work with community organisations like COPE Galway please visit our website www.dhkn.ie.
