Shaun's Story

Shaun’s Story 

Shaun was an independent man with a job in the printing business.  He lived on his own, paid his way and loved sport.  Then one day all that changed when he had an accident at work.  This resulted in Shaun having chemical burns to his body and eyes.  Although he can manage his skin condition and his eyes have partly healed, he lost his job, his home and ended up living in his car for 18 months, until that broke down too.  

He was alone, homeless and suicidal.  A friend by chance saw him sitting by the river as he considered ending his life and he stopped with him and offered him some practical help. He also told him about Vineyard Compassion and how they had helped him in the past. 

Shaun took the steps of contacting Vineyard Compassion and got to talk to a staff member. He got immediate access to the food bank and was assessed for the Compassion Housing project.  A friend offered Shaun the use of a caravan and when a Vineyard Compassion flat became available, he moved in.  Shaun was given support from our CAP Debt Centre manager, he completed the Steps to Employment program and currently he is part of the RESET program, a social supermarket with other wrap around support services.  

Shaun now volunteers at the Hope Centre 3 days a week.  He helps in the donation centre and with the clothing bank.  He is enjoying the sense of community with other volunteers and staff and is developing some good friendships. Shaun now says, “I am looking forward to a future, that I had previously given up on.  I have found an inner strength, a belief in myself and a trust in other people.” 

Long term Shaun hopes to have paid employment again and have his own home.  He wants to be in a position to help others.  Presently he loves being part of the Vineyard Compassion volunteer team and making new friends in this environment. He says that because of the help he has received he now feels supported, safe and comfortable.