I wouldn’t be where I am today without Vinnies

Christine* is one of the many people we have been able to assist in times of hardship. In her own words, she describes the support she has received from our members and services.

I am so grateful to be able to share a story and journey with you about the kindness and support Vinnies has provided me over many years.

I hope this gives inspiration to hold on when one thinks there is nothing left except the will and encouragement to believe.

Vinnies aspires to help the poor with love, respect, justice, hope, joy and dignity. Their staff and volunteers share in making a compassionate society and we are all so very blessed to have their assistance.

After years of repeated personal setbacks, inability to work, humiliating, condescending bureaucrats and endless defeats, I reached out to Vinnies for help.

I am extremely independent and proud and found these encounters terribly difficult. I felt like it was the end of the world – in fact it was a new beginning.

At my age (or whatever stage you are in life), in my wildest dreams, I never imagined the thought of being homeless with very few possessions or living on the streets. Thanks to Vinnies, I know how fortunate I am every minute of the day and feel safe, secure and no longer lonely and isolated.

Vinnies helped with finding a place I can finally call my home. They assisted me with furniture, household goods, a fridge, blankets, food vouchers and advice with finances.

My case worker Lauren is such a wonderful human and still contacts me just to have a chat and see how my health and mental wellbeing is going. Lauren’s emotional support is invaluable and keeps me going when I think everything around me is broken and lost.

According to statistics there are about 116,000 people homeless on any given night. We must endeavour to assist Vinnies in every possible way to increase their public profile, widen donations, and reach out for additional funding by the government to broaden their services to have a sustainable base to continue this support. The efforts from each and every one of us in whatever small way will be invaluable.

Words cannot express enough my gratitude and thankfulness to the entire Vinnies team. I trust with my heart and soul that peace, confidence and contentment is in reach for all.

*Name changed for privacy reasons.