“Caritas saved my life so I’m just giving back.”
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In the run up to World Homeless Day on 10 October, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the people who make up our community.
Will, who accessed our Red Door centre when he was homeless, now gives back by volunteering his time to help others. Here, he tells us more…
What do you do at Caritas Red Door?
I help in lots of ways. I cook breakfast and lunches, clean, and engage with people using the service. I offer them support and advice and am here to be there to help in any way I can.
How did you find out about Caritas?
I used the service myself when I was on the streets.
I started volunteering two years ago. Caritas saved my life so I’m just giving back.
What’s the best thing about volunteering?
The people. Witnessing people rebuild their confidence and move towards stability, and seeing people succeed in their goals that they never thought they could see possible.
Caritas is a charity. What’s it like volunteering?
Working at Caritas is deeply fulfilling. I was really surprised by how much of a family it feels.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not volunteering?
Cooking, football and fishing.
What three words would best describe you?
Compassionate. Friendly. Purpose.
How would you sum up the difference your volunteering makes in a sentence?
Offering lived experience of being homeless.
What would you say to other people thinking of starting to volunteer?
Do it!
Thank you to Will for sharing his experiences, and volunteering his time to support others. If you’d like to find out more about opportunities to volunteer, visit www.caritassalford.org.uk/volunteer or drop into your local Caritas service and have a chat with the team.
Read more about our campaign to see an end to homelessness and find out ways you can get involved.