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Looking at homelessness from both sides of the tracks

I’m a proud staff member and supporter of the Haymarket Foundation.

I am passionate about this work because I see myself in the eyes of the residents.

You see, not so long ago, I was walking in their shoes.

As a young person, I was bullied for being queer and ended up using drugs, then sleeping on trains because I had nowhere to go.

It was the Haymarket Foundation which helped me back on my feet.

That’s why I am also a donor to the Haymarket Foundation. 

When I was a client, the staff treated me with dignity and respect – no one else was giving me that.

While it was not the end of my recovery journey, that stayed with me and I wanted to do the same for others.

It took a number of years to get back on track – including a period of relapse, after being diagnosed with HIV – but I managed it.

Later, I put myself through a formal qualification, allowing me to work in this sector.

Sometimes the days and nights as a staff member are tough, as we are the only crisis accommodation service in NSW which is funded to work with people in active drug and alcohol use.

There are a lot of behaviours that can be challenging.

But it’s the vulnerability of the clients which really touches me – the drug and alcohol use is so often masking other issues.

I love seeing our clients housed and doing well – including people like Vic and Michael.

And I understand if some people need to come back to us – because we’re the place that gives people as many chances as they need.

Can you join me in supporting the Haymarket Foundation

All donations over $2 are tax-deductible.

Sincere thanks to those who have already given – and in advance to our friends who are able to lend a hand.

*The image used is not of the staff member, who has shared his story anonymously.