John is finding a way to meaningfully give back while living in our ShelterCare program.
John is rediscovering what it is like to be a helper.
John, one of our ShelterCare participants, has found meaningful ways to give back during his time with us, including encouraging and supporting other participants.
“One night, I stayed up for 30 hours just talking to someone,” said John. “It reminded me of when I was a Scout leader – I used to spend a lot of time talking to the youth, helping them out.”
John has been homeless for the past year, spending eight months living in his car before he sought help. A breakdown in his marriage led to John having nowhere else to go.
While in ShelterCare, John meets with the onsite counsellor, and also relies on the health supports provided, as he lives with diabetes.
But John is also using his time to help out, by mopping floors and cleaning, serving coffee at breakfast, and providing an encouraging word for other men in the program who are struggling with homelessness.
“It feels good to help out, to know that I’m making a difference.”
Through meaningful volunteer opportunities into the ShelterCare program, men like John can experience dignity and hope while homeless – and build valuable life skills that can stay with them, long after they leave.
John is currently waiting to find an apartment where he can live with his daughter, and is planning for a future career as a personal support worker – inspired by the help he’s received through ShelterCare.
And he knows that these dreams are possible because of a community of supporters like you, who are dreaming alongside him.
“It’s a good feeling to know that somebody cares,” said John.
Thank you for showing you believe in men like John! Your care and compassion allows men in our ShelterCare program rebuild their lives with dignity.
