Daisyhouse was founded by the late Sr Una McCourtney CSJP (1935-1996). Sr Una was Principal of a School in Washington State, USA for many years before returning to Ireland to work with people experiencing homelessness and women fleeing domestic abuse. With the help of the then Senator, and former President, Mary Robinson and Ita Kelly, a property was found in Dublin 8 and Sr Una opened up a new service for single homeless women. Out of this experience, Daisyhouse was born in 1989.

The Daisy flower was the symbol which Sr Una chose to represent the new service for people experiencing homelessness.

The Daisy is symbolic, because being a rooted and secure, it has potential for continued growth. The centre of the flower, containing daisy seeds, represents the individualism of the people we help. The petals, reaching outward symbolise the embracing of new possibilities based on a sense of security, a feeling of confidence and a recognition of personal dignity and self worth.

Through sr Una’s inspiration Daisyhouse continues to offer a service that is person focused, a non-judgmental, full of compassion and totally focused on the best interests of each individual women we support and work with.