1 October 2019
By Bryan Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
Pfizer’s Ringaskiddy site and Cork Simon Community recently unveiled the refurbishment of the Cork Simon’s Riverview apartments, Anderson’s Quay, Cork city. The refurbishment project, solely supported by Pfizer began in June and after months of work is now complete. The comprehensive renovation included a full refit of the kitchen living areas, bedrooms and bathrooms.
Pictured at the unveiling of the refurbished Cork Simon’s Riverview apartments, Andersons Quay, Cork city were, from left, Dermot Kelly, Director CMC Strategy, Global Regulatory Affairs, Pfizer ; Clair Murphy, Site Lead, Pfizer Ringaskiddy alongside Dermot Kavanagh, Director of Cork Simon and Josephine Crinnion, Cork Simon Project worker. The refurbishment project, solely supported by Pfizer began in June and after months of work is now complete. The comprehensive renovation included a full refit of the kitchen living areas, bedrooms and bathrooms.
(Picture: Adrian O’Herlihy)
The apartments, which were built in 1996, are run by the Cork Simon Community and operate on a Housing First model, enabling people to move as quickly as possible into permanent housing and providing additional support for people’s significant challenges. People who are supported through Housing First face significant challenges including poor mental and physical health, addictions, childhood trauma, isolation, lack of education and unemployment.
Clair Murphy, Site Lead, Pfizer Ringaskiddy said; “The Simon Community in Cork provide an excellent service to those in need and we are very pleased to have supported the refurbishment of the Cork Simon’s Riverview Apartments. The work of the Cork Simon Community team is truly remarkable.The Simon Community in Ireland have touched many lives in their 50 years of service and I would like to congratulate the Simon Community on their special milestone.”
Dermot Kavanagh, Cork Simon Community’s Director commented: “We are very grateful to have the financial support of Pfizer colleagues in Ringaskiddy – their generous funding has made it possible for us to complete a much-needed refurbishment of our eight Riverview Flats. Our work includes walking with people for as long as they need us as they continue their journey out of homelessness; these refurbished flats will be essential in helping people stay the course to a much brighter future.”
“As Pfizer celebrate their 50thanniversary in Ireland this year we would like to thank the team in Pfizer Ringaskiddy for their continuous support for men and women experiencing homelessness here in Cork.”