Despite the criticism of face-to-face, or direct dialogue as Concern calls it, the results have been spectacular for the charity.
In 2000 Concern had 13,000 donors who gave on a regular basis. Within two years that figure had risen to 155,000. Almost two thirds of that increase resulted directly from on-street efforts.
Three Northern Ireland charities have joined forces to raise money for homeless people.
Simon Community Northern Ireland, Ark Housing Association and Shelter (NI) have issued a challenge to participants to complete over a 72 hour period on 30 June 2005 climbing four peaks in the Mourne Mountains, County Down.
The lack of up to date legislation regarding charities in the Republic of Ireland left some areas of charitable fundraising vulnerable to abuse, according to the incoming chairman of Ireland's biggest accountancy body.
Addressing the Leinster Society of Chartered Accountants, Lorcan Colclough, called on the Government to introduce legislation to regulate charities.
The fundraising group established by the Wheel has been dissolved, although some of the work it developed will be continued.
Despite several attempts to negotiate a way forward between the Wheel and the Fundraisers Network Steering Group they could not reach a 'mutual agreeable working solution.'
Comhairle, the national body supporting the provision of information, advice and advocacy on social services, is calling for applications under its Grants Scheme for 2005.
The Grants Scheme will promote innovative measures to target groups that may experience social exclusion. Particular consideration will be given to the information needs of older people.
Banking group Abbey has chosen the Ulster Cancer Foundation in Northern Ireland as its nominated 'Charity of the Year.'
Marianne Creaney, Abbey Events Coordinator, said they aimed to promote team building and boost staff morale by holding a wide variety of creative fundraising events for UCF.
