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Hutt St Centre

Your kindness is life-changing for people like Stanley

For 74-year-old Stanley*, his story of a new start in life, and the joy and connection he has found, shows exactly how much your support matters at Hutt St Centre.

Stanley was one of the more than 6,000 people experiencing homelessness in South Australia when we first met him.

He had visited Hutt St Centre for food and a hot shower many times. Case Manager Gaye said:

“Stanley didn’t open up too much back then, but he looked as though he had the weight of the world on his shoulders.”

It wasn’t until Stanley pitched his tent in the South Park Lands, dangerously close to a main road, that his serious struggle with low vision and mental health became clear. Our team began to work one-on-one with Stanley to build his trust.

Over the next few months, Stanley took important steps forward. He began working with Gaye, who helped him move to a boarding house. He reconnected with his daughter and her family, who were living interstate. With the support of the team here at Hutt St Centre, he overcame his anxieties about flying to hop on a plane and visit them.

Gradually, through his connection with Hutt St Centre, Stanley’s confidence grew. He joined in with Lifestyle and Health activities and began to make new friends. He learned how to use new technology so he could use a smartphone to make video calls to his family, creating a beautiful connection with his grandchildren.

Stanley has now moved to be with his family, lives independently and is the happiest he has been in years.

“No stone was left unturned and nothing was left to chance. Hutt St Centre is a great organisation – thanks to all of you,” said Stanley.

Gaye couldn't be happier with this outcome. She says, “When I think of how far Stanley's come, I can't help but smile... With support, he has overcome so much. Thank you for supporting what we do – your kindness changes lives.” 

Isn’t this a wonderful story? Stanley has truly found joy and connection, thanks to you, and it all started here at Hutt St Centre.

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*At Hutt St Centre we respect everyone who comes to us for help – and many are working toward a fresh start in life. So while this is a true story, names and images have been changed to protect their privacy. Thank you for understanding.