Going back a few years ago, I experienced a really hard period where I was receiving government assistance. The Salvation Army and a Christian church helped me, and I also relied on the support of the local food bank.
Through this, a good friend of mine is a dedicated Christian to the church and helps those in need without hesitation or cost. Father Matt helped me through the hard times and was always there with his support and acts of kindness.
Saturday Mornings…
I have always been grateful for the assistance I have received and the privilege of having supportive individuals in my life who ensure my well-being. I am aware that Father Matt and Father Brian have dedicated themselves to helping those who find themselves trapped in the vicious cycle of substance abuse, homelessness, and despair.
Through this, I asked Father Matt if I could help. He invited me to the park at North Bridge, where every Saturday, he and many nonprofit and charitable organizations would put on a feast and serve lunch for the homeless and those who rely on the streets as their way of life.
To say that it shook me would be an understatement. At first, I was saddened and despairing by what I saw – two sides, one in desperate despair and one there to help them understand and know that there are people who will be there for them. It was set up with trestles, chairs, blankets, and the food was of restaurant quality. There was so much food that they could put it into takeaway containers for those who wanted a meal that evening as well.
What It Meant To Me…
I helped out every Saturday in the off-season with AFL, and during the season, I assisted Father Matt with his men’s group. This group was specifically designed to support men who were struggling in various areas of life.
As I write this now and look back, it meant so much to me, knowing that there was support for me at every corner of my struggle. Experiencing and being able to give back and help those who were in a darker place than mine meant so much. It opened a door that I hadn’t seen before, one that was deeper and darker, making me realize that addiction is real and affects people of all ages. Many find themselves in a hellhole when it comes to heavy drugs, alcohol, abuse, and gambling, and it is a different world that not many are aware of.
The Experience In Life…
I did this for around 18 months on the Saturdays I could: cooking the BBQ, setting up, and cleaning up, and just being there for a shoulder to chat with. The same goes for the men’s groups. Over this period of time, I saw mobile showers, mobile hairdressers, and second-hand clothes being provided. Many people dedicated their time to help, and they continue to do so. It made me understand that it doesn’t matter how much I felt down or in a dark corner, there are others worse off than me just down the road. In those years that I found a full-time job, this support has grown even more for people of all ages as there are so many more who need their support.
I still donate to the Salvation Army and the homeless. It’s my way of thanking Father Matt for showing me that if you can help one person in life, it’s a way of feeling good, knowing that a little bit helped to supply a blanket, clothes, food, and a thank you for being there for me.
#Journey Through Life.
mags64@journeythroughlife.blog
Journey Through Life... 