An emergency accommodation project targeting young homeless people with addiction problems was launched in Dublin today.
The two agencies behind the project, Focus Ireland and the Society of St Vincent de Paul, called for greater government commitment to tackle homelessness in the city.
Focus Ireland chief executive Mr Declan Jones said: "When you're stuck in a cycle like this it's impossible to break out of homelessness or deal with addiction problems.
"There are 140 young people independently homeless in Dublin each night and many of them need a service like this to give them a chance.
"Further investment in services like this is essential."
The project, officially opened by minister for children Mr Brian Lenihan, gives homeless young people somewhere they can escape from life on the streets and sleep for the night after having a meal and a wash.
Specially trained staff help them link in with relevant services such as psychological, psychiatric and drug treatment services.
No drug taking is allowed on the premises but the service does provide a place to stay for many people who are barred from other accommodation because of drug use.
Life president of Focus Ireland, Sister Stanislaus Kennedy, called on the Government to "lead by example in social as well as economic policy" when the country takes on the presidency of Europe in January.
She said the State should ensure urgent action is taken to tackle the root causes of homelessness.
"In the past year we have seen a regressive approach taken towards troubled young people.
"The 'lock them up' attitude of the Department of Justice smacks of a 19th century mentality and acts to undermine important progressive initiatives like the Caretakers.
"There's absolutely nowhere for the courts to send 14-15 year olds who are in trouble except back out on the streets."
The Caretakers project has been operating since May and since then has housed 35 young people for periods ranging from one night to a month.