The Red Cross has named Aubrey McCarthy, the founder and voluntary chair of Tiglin, a Wicklow-based charity, the 2024 Humanitarian of the Year.

He has been honoured for his outstanding contributions to humanitarian efforts. Over the years, many people have managed to get their lives back on track with the help of Tiglin.

Aubrey McCarthy’s dedication to humanitarian causes is deeply personal. His own family's struggle with addiction inspired him to co-found Tiglin in 2008, with a mission to provide hope and a way out for individuals facing similar challenges. The Mover published a feature on Tiglin in 2022.

Aubrey runs the well-known moving and storage company AMC Removals which has offices in Dublin and Kildare. His staff at AMC regularly volunteer at his Tiglin Centres. The President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins, praised Aubrey and stated that his example should be repeated in every county in Ireland. Cllr Stephen Stokes, Mayor, stated: "Aubrey is an incredible human being. His dedication and commitment to those less fortunate is an inspiration. I would like to congratulate Aubrey on this well-deserved win."

Tiglin’s services are unique and person-centred, supporting over 200 individuals at any one time. Beneficiaries describe Tiglin as more than just social services; it is a home, a community, and a place where dignity is restored. The organisation has been particularly helpful in integrating Ukrainian women and children into Irish society, caring for over 100 Ukrainian nationals. 129 individuals have started a new life in the past year through Tiglin’s Wicklow-based rehabilitation and aftercare programmes while the organisation is championing access to education and upskilling through its social enterprise projects. In 2023, 92 of those in Tiglin’s care enrolled in third-level courses run by South East Technological University.

In his acceptance speech, Aubrey McCarthy emphasised the ongoing crises of homelessness, trauma of war, and addiction that continue to affect many in Ireland. “While I’m honoured to accept this award, I need to remember that the backdrop of this is the plight of homelessness, the devastation of war, and the negative impact of addiction that too many people are facing in Ireland today,” he remarked.

Aubrey McCarthy is also actively involved in volunteering at Tiglin’s homeless café - Light House - on Pearse Street in central Dublin. Reflecting on the current situation, he noted, “The last six months have been a crisis response. Nearly two thousand international applicants are without accommodation, and many are sleeping on the streets. We see several encampments in Dublin, with the largest outside the IPO (Irish Post Office) offices. I volunteer at the Light House every week, helping to meet the needs of those who seek hot food, basic supplies or just a chat. At the café, we provide information, referral/support services, haircuts, and entertainment. We are currently serving an average of 450 guests daily.”

Aubrey McCarthy’s recognition as the 2024 Red Cross Humanitarian of the Year highlights his commitment and non-stop effort to improving lives through compassion and practical solace.

Photo: Aubrey McCarthy.