Our story

The story behind a global charity with humble beginnings

​Every year our organisation continues to grow and provide more opportunity to bring Hope, Help and Healing to people who are living in situations of desperate need.​

1994

In 1994, in the village of Richhill, Ronnie Dawson saw the need to change the story of the young people there- among whom drug and alcohol abuse was common place. They found a space in the village to use as a drop inn centre which came attached with a chip shop.

1994

Drop Inn began as a "drop-in" youth centre with a chip shop.

1995

Not long after, the Chernobyl disaster happened. On hearing the news break, Ronnie knew he had to do something. He filled a lorry with supplies and drove across Europe to get the much-needed aid to the people most affected by the catastrophe.

1996

This became a yearly trip and soon Drop Inn was overwhelmed with donated supplies some of which could not be sent due to border restrictions.

1996

With the surplus goods, Ronnie’s mother came up with the idea of opening thrift store to help pay the fuel for the trip.

Today

Today, the shops number around 30 across Northern Ireland; three in Ireland; two in the Isle of Man; two in Iowa, USA and three Tin House Coffee shops in Armagh, Newry and Portadown.

Today

These shops and their hard working staff provide the funds Drop Inn requires to bring hope help and healing to over 20 countries.