James’ Journey
Content warning:
This story contains references to addiction, which some readers may find distressing. Please take care while reading.
I was the life of the party, but then the party became my life.
I was losing friends and family. I thought I was managing ok but before I knew it, I was homeless.
I rocked up to a job with all my stuff and asked where to put it – “Leave it in your car?” But I didn’t have one.
My head would never stop when I was on the street. I realise now that was survival mode.
When you are homeless you feel like you don’t exist.
I didn’t think I’d ever get out, I wanted to give up. Every time my family helped me, I would mess it up. I started to think I wasn’t worthy of help.
The people at Uniting really listened and they believed in me. It wasn’t just a shower, food or clothes. They helped me get a phone, sort out my Centrelink payments, and referred me to rehab.
Uniting got me a place in a share house. They call it Transitional Housing but it’s not about the housing. It’s about transitioning your life.
At times, I felt lonely. I was avoiding my family because I didn’t want to hear the hurt in their voices. The Uniting team always wanted to know how they could help – it was like having family watch out for me.
When I was in rehab, I got a letter from Uniting, even though I wasn’t connected with them. It said “Hey James, we heard you’re doing really well. If you’d like to catch up or have a chat, give us a call.” I called, and they told me how proud they were and how excited they were to see me on this journey.
They didn’t have to reach out – but they did.
Now, I’ve been sober for two years. I’m working on myself, giving back, and I have my family back in my life. I see my mum, my sisters and my nieces regularly.
When I call my mum, there’s no fear in her voice – just pride.
There's more than one way home
You've seen James' story - now follow Paul and Emma as they walk their own paths.
These stories were discovered among others through independent research we commissioned to explore the nuanced, often complex journeys of people building a pathway out of homelessness.
Paul
