Michelle's story
“This time last year, I couldn’t afford my rent anymore. Without any support around me, I had to sleep rough for six months – sometimes on buses, sometimes on the streets. I thought, ‘Am I going to be out here on Christmas Day?’ I was so worried about that.
“When I was referred to Crisis at Christmas, everything changed. That first day with them was my last day on the streets.
“They were so welcoming. There was no judgement. They put me up in a hotel – it was so nice to just sit and be safe. It’s like a weight had been lifted.
“I spent Christmas Day with other Crisis guests. We had Christmas food, including my favourite – mince pies and custard. There was karaoke, bingo – I even got my nails done. I felt like a human again.
“My lead worker, Kate, was always in my corner. I could talk to her about anything and everything. And she did all she could to help me find a permanent home.
“It was tough but I’m proud that I’ve got through it. In March, I moved into my new home. And I can’t wait to spend Christmas there this year.”
*Michelle's story reflects a real member's experience, but her name and photo were changed to protect her identity.
Photo credits: Lee Brown.
You can support someone like Michelle to start their journey out of homelessness
You can support someone like Michelle to start their journey out of homelessness