Support Grants for a Fresh Start
Fresh Foundations is a pilot initiative designed to help individuals and families in Northern Ireland who are at risk of homelessness. Run by Homeless Connect, through this programme, people who are eligible can receive a personal support grant of up to the value £600 to spend on essential household items and food deliveries.
The purpose of Fresh Foundations is to provide practical support to help individuals at risk of homelessness in Northern Ireland set up or sustain a home. The goal is to make living spaces safe, comfortable, and supportive of long-term wellbeing.
This support is about more than just items — it’s about helping people build a foundation for independent living.
What this means for clients
Choice
Clients can choose the items they need most — from household essentials to food deliveries
Flexibility
The grant offers flexibility and autonomy, empowering people to shape their own living environment
Housing first
Ideal for those moving into private rented accommodation through schemes like Housing First
Anticipated impact
Improved wellbeing
Improved wellbeing and sense of stability
Maintenance
Increased ability to maintain income and housing
Stability
Reduced risk of eviction or homelessness
Who Fresh Foundations Supports
Fresh Foundations is exclusively available to individuals from the Homeless Prevention Fund target groups in Northern Ireland. This pilot programme is designed to provide tailored support to those facing significant barriers to stable housing.
Eligible groups
This focused approach ensures that support reaches those who need it most — helping them build safe, healthy, and sustainable homes.
Young people leaving care
Young people leaving care, transitioning into independent living and in need of essential support
Women experiencing homelessness
Women vulnerable to or experiencing chronic homelessness, including those facing long-term housing instability or unsafe living conditions
Individuals affected by domestic abuse
Individuals experiencing or having experienced domestic abuse, seeking safety, stability, and a fresh start.
Individuals leaving prison
Individuals being released from prison who are reintegrating into the community and working toward independent living
What the grant covers
Clients can choose how to use their grant
Household Essentials
(e.g. kitchenware, bedding, electrical items)
Food deliveries
(e.g. groceries)
Mix and match
The grant can be used on both household essentials and food deliveries if needed
How it works
Support workers apply on behalf of their clients. Once approved:
1. Browse the online catalogue of available items and services with your client
2. View transparent pricing for each option
3. Select what best suits your clients’ needs with their approval— up to the £600 limit
The grant is designed to offer flexibility, dignity, and practical support to help people build a stable foundation.
Additional Support Through our partners, Greater Change
As part of the Fresh Foundations pilot, eligible clients may also apply for further personalised support through our partner Greater Change. This support is designed to help individuals overcome financial barriers that prevent them from moving forward.
