People online have been left outraged after images emerged of a young homeless boy eating dinner off a piece of cardboard on a Dublin street.
Five-year-old 'Sam' was pictured eating carbonara on a pathway in the capital and the image has sparked widespread anger.
Posted on Tuesday night, the picture has already received thousands of reactions and shares on Facebook.
The Homeless Street Cafe uploaded the image after a "busy night" helping homeless people in the capital, The Irish Mirror reports.
It said: "We are home after another incredibly busy night. I’m exhausted, weary and emotional and should (guiltily) go to bed BUT there is an image burnt in all the teams minds tonight.
"It’s wrong and it’s distressing but this IS happening and it’s only getting worse each week.
"'Sam' is five and this was him eating a dinner of carbonara tonight on a sheet of cardboard. Can we really accept this?"
One social media user commented: "Saddest picture I‘ve seen in a long time.
"To think this is real life for so many unfortunate people.
"Well done for been so strong to do what you do and see what you see night after night. You and your team are amazing human beings."
Another added: "I never imagined seeing an image such as this in Dublin. I won’t forget it.
"Thank you for caring AND most importantly your actions."
A third said: "This is heartbreaking how are we allowing this to happen to the people of Ireland."
