New Hope: Testimony of transformation

Read this anonymous testimony from someone who had their lives changed with the help of New Hope:

I was sofa-surfing for many years and used to go to ‘The Haven’ for food. They really helped me out.

Then, in a short space of time, I lost many people close to me, my mum, my sister, my aunt, my cousin and my best friend. I was in a dark place. I wasn’t talking to my children or my grandchildren – I cut myself off from everyone.

The Haven helped me move into the Sanctuary, three years ago. For the first time in years, I had my own space.

Support from staff helped me come out of depression. They encouraged me to have contact with my loved ones. I took their advice and now I’m back in contact with my family, my children and my grandchildren. I’ve stabilised and it’s easier to manage the grief. I have a different perspective on life.

I do voluntary work and I keep myself busy. I’ve never been able to save before but now I’m saving, ready to buy furniture for when I have my own place. I used to smoke cannabis before I came to the Sanctuary and I have given that up. I don’t even smoke tobacco now. Cooking is my passion and I cook on a regular basis. I love sharing food. I am trying to be supportive to my family and friends. If it hadn’t been for New Hope, I wouldn’t have been in a position to do that.

New Hope has had a massive impact on my life. I don’t want to think about where I’d be without New Hope.