Our Programs

Care that meets real needs

Every ARK Outreach program is designed with community partners to deliver holistic, sustainable impact.

Medical Outreach / General Clinic

Eye Clinic

Children's Clinic

Mental Health Support

Health Education

Community Development

Laboratory Clinic

Elective Day Surgery

Ark Taxi Refreshment Outreach

The ARK Refreshment Project was established in Cork, Ireland, in October 2024. The project creates opportunities to engage with taxi drivers in a relaxed and welcoming environment over a cup of tea or coffee and light refreshments. Through these informal conversations, we provide support, share information, and signpost individuals to appropriate helpline and support services when needed.

Project Aim

The aim of the ARK Refreshment Project is to train and support taxi drivers in providing Mental Health First Aid and crisis communication skills, strengthening their ability to:

  • Recognize the early signs of mental distress and crisis.
  • Provide empathetic, non-judgmental support to individuals in need.
  • De-escalate stressful or potentially harmful situations.
  • Signpost and facilitate timely referrals to appropriate professional support and emergency services when required.

By equipping taxi drivers with these essential skills, the project seeks to improve early intervention, promote community wellbeing, and enhance access to mental health support.

Key Activities in 2025

Street Outreach

Our core activity continued every Friday & Saturday, with volunteers stationed across key locations in Cork, including the Bus Station and Kent train station Taxi Ranks.

Services offered:

  • Tea, coffee, and refreshments
  • Pastoral support
  • Mental health resources
  • Crisis signposting
Mental Health Awareness Campaign

We rolled out an expanded “You’re Not Alone” campaign:

  • Distributed more than 2,000 help-line stickers for taxis.
  • Held two days mental health awareness trainings in partnership with Cork Volunteer Centre.

Our Impact in 2025

Engagement Snapshot
  • Donation of a scooter to 45-year-old Chisom to support their mobility and daily activities.
  • 2,400+ one-to-one conversations with taxi drivers.
  • 3,500+ cups of tea/coffee served to taxi drivers and the public.
  • 26 SAFETALK trained volunteers.