Sharon says: “People never met before because they didn’t have the chance to. Now friendships that have grown from similar interests such as in crafting and upcycling or attending community events are being maintained.

“People are saying they are comfortable about being here. In many ways in the past there just wasn’t that opportunity. People were a mile or two apart but didn’t know each other.”

Engagement between Florencecourt Primary School and Scoil Mhuire National School has seen natural friendships develop. Children that have never had an opportunity to swim or ride a bike together have had their lives transformed. They have been learning skills such as map reading, problem solving, triathlon as well as a focus on personal health and wellbeing.

Seeing friendships develop is rewarding for Sharon and everyone in the house, so the opportunity funding brings to build on that can only be a positive.

“We are managing IFI funding and striving to bring other providers on board to try to ensure there is sustainability long-term.”

The confidence of the committee has grown over the last year and they have big plans for the future. The coffee shop and solar panel projects have all been boosts, which have seen increased pride and interest in SDA.

Feasibility plans are being developed to turn the house into a hostel, making use of an area of natural beauty to provide employment and tourists into the area.

“We are in the geo-park area, a fabulous area of Cavan, we are on the doorstep of the Stairway to Heaven.

“The long-term vision is to retain visitors.”

Such activities are seen as a way to promote economic opportunity in the area and in turn see a return of people to live there.

The project is an investment in a border community trying to rebuild and tackle feelings among those who feel forgotten, disillusioned and disheartened.

“We now have a really good sense of community and genuine relationships. Encouraging people to come to the area gives locals on both sides of the border genuine hope about regeneration.”