Evolve Housing Annual Report 2020–2021

Page 55

PROVIDE QUALITY HOMES AND SERVICES

GEO R G E’ S STORY

Arncliffe resident George, who was homeless prior

garden. “[Living in Arncliffe has had a] big impact, huge

to moving into the estate, has embraced his new

impact … socially, I’m talking to a couple of people

community and even began his own cooking tutorials

now instead of locking myself away. People are there

for fellow tenants.

and genuine and helping. Carrie-Ann and Paea are the best people ever; they’re genuine,” George said.

George was living in his car for months after having been released from jail and struggling with

As well as making new friends with his neighbours,

depression and anxiety. He was initially housed in

George has been holding cooking classes at the

a 1-bedroom apartment in Arncliffe, supported by

property, sharing his skills and passion for food with

not-for-profit organisation Neami National. After he

other tenants. 7 people attended his first class, in

got joint custody of his children, we helped him move

which George showed how to cook chicken schnitzel,

into a 3-bedroom apartment in the block, so that he

mashed potatoes, butter and honey carrots, mushroom

could have his family visit.

gravy, caramel slice and cherry ripe.

Living in the property, with the support of Evolve

“I did cooking for three years back when I was a young

Housing’s Arncliffe Community Hub, has given George

fella, but I’ve got a passion for cooking. I lost it for

a new lease on life. He has participated in many social

a couple of years, and now it’s back. This is just my way

activities with his fellow residents, including beach

out of the depression and anxiety; cooking and feeling

visits, and also got involved with the on-site community

happy. It seems to make other people happy too.”

Photo: George, Evolve Housing resident

55


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