Charlene Whelan’s heartbreaking struggle highlights urgency for homeless support ahead of Christmas

In a heart-wrenching tale of homelessness, Charlene Whelan, 29, and her five-year-old son endure freezing temperatures, sleeping in a tent outside Limerick City and County Council offices in Ireland. The dire situation has left Charlene fearing for her son’s health, who suffers from asthma, as they face the harsh winter weather without proper shelter.

Whelan, who recently stayed with a friend, found herself on the streets after her temporary accommodation arrangement ended abruptly. Desperately searching for a place to stay, she laments her inability to afford a hotel due to financial constraints, leaving her and her son exposed to the cold elements.

Last night, with temperatures plummeting to nearly -2 degrees Celsius, Charlene ingeniously used teddy bears and blankets to provide some comfort to her son. Expressing concern for her child’s well-being, especially given his health conditions, she recounts the challenges of keeping him safe in the makeshift outdoor shelter.

Distressed and emotionally drained, Charlene shares her son’s innocent confusion, as he wonders why no one is coming to their aid. Battling the elements, Whelan set alarms throughout the night, constantly checking on her son to ensure his safety amid the challenging conditions.

The dire circumstances have left Charlene feeling helpless and on the brink, expressing her fears about their survival if they don’t receive assistance before Christmas. She opens up about her son’s innocent inquiries, questioning why they are facing such hardship.

Moreover, Charlene reveals her reservations about homeless services in the city, claiming to have faced challenges accessing them due to past issues with Limerick City and County Council. She emphasizes the need for a safe and routine environment for her son, highlighting the difficulties she encounters in securing accommodation for them both.

As the harrowing story unfolds, it sheds light on the urgent need for comprehensive homeless support, especially with the holiday season approaching. Charlene’s plea for assistance becomes a stark reminder of the ongoing housing crisis and the human toll it takes on vulnerable families. The Mirror has reached out to Limerick City Council for comments on this pressing matter.