SuperValu has raised €150,000 for Focus Ireland through customer donations via the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), providing financial aid to families experiencing homelessness. Since launching in November 2025, the initiative has empowered customers nationwide to donate their DRS vouchers in-store, raising an average of €25,000 per month for the charity.
Since the launch of the DRS initiative last year, nearly 600 million containers have been recycled across 577 SuperValu and Centra stores nationwide. By donating their DRS vouchers, customers not only help to protect the environment but also support one of Ireland’s most vital charities.
Funds raised will go directly to supporting families and children experiencing homelessness, helping Focus Ireland deliver vital frontline services. This includes access to short- and long-term accommodation, as well as one-to-one support for children from specialised care workers, covering therapeutic, educational and emotional wellbeing needs.
The funding also supports essential childcare services and provides financial assistance for everyday costs such as travel, back-to-school expenses and participation in activities – giving families the stability and support they need to rebuild their lives.
The need for these services is more urgent than ever. A record 17,517 people are currently experiencing homelessness, including 5,571 children across 2,659 families. This represents, a 14% increase compared to this time last year, with child homelessness up 19% since March 2025.
Des O’Mahony, Director of Strategy Retail, Musgrave said: “Supporting families and communities is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re proud to exclusively partner with Focus Ireland to help families and children experiencing homelessness. Through the generosity of our customers and their support of our DRS donation initiative, an incredible €150,000 has been raised for the charity since November 2025 - demonstrating that even small actions can make a big difference. Not only is this helping those in need, but it is also contributing to a more sustainable environment. It’s fantastic to see such strong community spirit from people across the country.”
Pat Dennigan, CEO of Focus Ireland, said: “No child should have to grow up without a secure home, yet over 4,000 children in Ireland are currently experiencing homelessness. Through our partnership with SuperValu, we have managed to raise €150,000 to directly support our vital work to end child homelessness and give every child the stability and hope they deserve. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to SuperValu customers for their continued generosity and support in helping tackle one of society’s most pressing issues.”
