I asked resident Paul from Romana to say a few words to a group of LV Williamson folks when they visit Servants in a few nights time. The following is what he is going to say. I am sure that one way or another we all feel privileged to be involved with SCH – if not, perhaps Paul’s words might change your mind!!

‘When I came to Servants I was on the verge of becoming homeless once again. I was physically very ill and mentally I was trying to keep myself away clean and away from drugs but constantly getting drawn back in and I hated the person I was. I was desperate to change everything about my life and myself. This was as far as I was concerned the last chance – I only saw one alternative and that was death – this was looking more and more like the best option.

While I was in hospital my social worker and drug councilor found Servants – at first it was just somewhere to go – it seemed expensive, but sounded interesting after meeting Matt. I was confused. It sounded too good to actually be true and he seemed so honestly passionate about it all and he assured my social worker that he thought Romana would be very good for me. I’d been assured by Matt that the house was ‘drug and alcohol free’ – but who believes that shit? – they all tell a good tale until it comes to the point of backing up words with actions. The first week it seemed different, friendly, caring – the I ended up in hospital again and I must say I was excited to be released after a week. I wanted to go home. I hadn’t had that feeling for a long time. Hospital had become the only place I really felt safe in – now I felt safe at home as time went on. This was now my home. Pat and Brian our house managers are fantastic along with Matt and the rest of the staff they make everyone feel wanted. They all give you respect, treat you with dignity and in turn you can then develop your own hope. This very simple model they work by it really works – every single person is treated equally. I personally felt safe and secure enough to stay off drugs and get rid of all my old friends and associates so I could stay clean. I’ve also changed or should say that I’m changing all the things I hated about the old me – the person who honestly did not care if he lived or died. I am physically the healthiest physically and mentally I have been in a very long time. I have my own small business starting all thanks to Servants. I can very confidently say without Servants on and by my side I would be dead and happy it was happening. Servants is my home, the people are my family and I m proud of them and I’m so very proud of the things I am achieving and the person I am becoming. Servants Community Housing and Hawthorn West Baptist Church thank you from the bottom of my heart.’