Charity Partnership: A new kitchen for Cork Simon Community
Through our "Helping Homes" charity partnership, Cash & Carry Kitchens donated, designed and fitted a life-changing new kitchen for Cork Simon Community.
A Much-Needed Kitchen for Cork
In 2024, as part of our Helping Homes charity initiative, Cash & Carry Kitchens proudly donated, designed and installed a brand-new Reflections Ivory kitchen and utility area at a Simon Communities of Ireland outreach centre in Cork. This centre provides essential accommodation and support to people facing homelessness and after 22 years of service, its original kitchen was no longer fit for purpose.
See how the new kitchen has helped
Out with the Old
“The old kitchen was falling apart. This upgrade was badly needed,”
Karen, Team Leader at the Cork residence
The team at the centre needed a kitchen that was durable, accessible and easy to use in a space that could serve the daily needs of residents while creating a welcoming, homely environment.
The upgrade was 'badly needed'
In with the New
The new kitchen was designed with functionality and longevity in mind, featuring:
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Deep drawers for accessible storage
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Soft-close doors and drawers
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Integrated appliances for a clean, seamless finish
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Built-in bins, which Karen says have “made the place a lot cleaner.
“This is exactly what we wanted. We wanted the residents to feel like it was part of who they are and to feel some ownership around it,” says Karen.
She’s already seen a positive impact:
“This kitchen has given us a new life. It’s inspired residents to cook again, something they hadn’t been inclined to do in the old space.”
The integrated bins have made the place a lot cleaner.
Why Kitchens Matter
A new kitchen can transform an outreach centre, offering not just a functional space to prepare meals, but a social hub where people can connect, share and feel at home.
These kitchen upgrades also ease pressure on Simon Communities of Ireland, helping to reduce long-term maintenance costs and allowing resources to be directed elsewhere.
New kitchens will bring independence to outreach centres
Looking Ahead
This Cork kitchen marks our second donation, following the installation of a new kitchen in Galway in late 2023. We’re committed to continuing this partnership, with more kitchen donations planned for Simon outreach centres across Ireland.
This project is part of our ongoing commitment to Helping Homes and we’re proud to support the vital work of Simon Communities of Ireland as they strive to provide safety, dignity and hope to people experiencing homelessness.
Providing a respectful warm environment for people who are experiencing the trauma of homelessness
