Some of Waterford's poorest residents have been handed a boost with the Little Sisters of the Poor - who have been caring for senior citizens since 1868 - celebrating their new St. Joseph's complex, complete with new chapel at Abbey Road, Ferrybank.

Built at a cost of €23m St. Joseph's comprises 50 bedrooms, 22 apartments and a host of facilities and is said to be a long way in style and comfort from the old St. Joseph's at Manor Hill, which was home to the Little Sisters of the Poor since their arrival in the city a century and a half ago.

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The 18 sisters will reside on the top floor of the building and the remaining floors will be taken up with residential accommodation comprising of ensuite bedrooms and apartments including a living room, kitchen, bedrooms and storage space.

The building has been designed with a village feel. On the ground floor the facilities include lounges, a multi-purpose hall, library, kitchen, dining rooms, chapel, hair salon a medical centre, craft room and a shop.

Some of the bedrooms have balconies overlooking the river while others overlook the primary or Abbey secondary school.

Much of the total cost of the new building is in place but €2m still needs to be raised - most likely through voluntary effort.

Despite the fact that a final fundraising push has to get underway the Little sisters, staff and residents are delighted with what has been achieved on the Abbey Road, reported the Waterford News & Star.

(BMcC/GK)