Life-long connections at Hutt St Centre
News
A new Hutt St Centre program is providing much-needed support and connection for men at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
Once a month the Centre offers activities, afternoon tea, and talks from guest speakers on important topics such as mental wellbeing, respectful relationships, health and fitness.
Launched during Men’s Health Week in June, the manKIND program has continued to grow and evolve, resonating with men who attend.
It follows the introduction in June last year of IGNITE, a monthly event to empower women at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
CEO Chris Burns said manKIND was part of Hutt St Centre’s commitment to providing holistic care for the men who come through their doors.
“Approximately 60 per cent of men are sleeping rough when they first come to Hutt St Centre and many have experienced broken relationships and mental health issues,” he said.
“Specialised support like that offered by manKIND is important for connecting men to resources and opportunities to help them on their journey to homefulness.”
Many visitors, including Peter*, express that one of the hardest parts of going through homelessness is feeling isolated, so opportunities for connection are vital.
“I really enjoy manKIND. It’s a good program and a safe space where I can share deep and real things with men in similar situations, and with people who are here to help,” Peter said.
“I’ve faced a lot of challenges and have been sleeping rough for a lot of my life, so it’s nice to go to manKIND and talk with people who will genuinely listen to me.”
*Name changed for privacy.
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