I received an email from a man who reached out to St John ’ s Care three weeks ago – he described his story to me . C is a middle aged man who had lived in a two bedroom house for eight years with his wife and two daughters . C and his wife were never wealthy , but had always managed to provide a stable and safe environment for their young family . The two children shared a bedroom , and the family managed with one bathroom – although this certainly provided its challenges .
Early this year , C lost his job when COVID-19 forced large sections of the work force into unemployment . Money became increasingly tight , and the family began to face significant financial struggles . C described the pressure that their finances had placed on their marriage , which ultimately triggered their split .
C ’ s wife struggled to come to terms with the families sudden change in fortune , and turned to alcohol to cope . Their relationship continued to fracture , and after weeks of friction , it turned violent .
C was desperate to escape with his children , and contacted the police to report the incident . His wife remained in the family home , and he moved to a cheap motel . With little money to his name , C recalls reaching his breaking point while watching his children eat instant noodles for breakfast , and he decided to reach out for support .
After reading his email , I immediately contacted C and asked him to visit our Centre . I met him outside our Centre , his young daughters following closely behind him . We took a seat in the courtyard and I began to collect some basic information .
C was reluctant to ask for help , but after insisting , he conceded that the family were desperate for fresh fruit , vegetables , meat and some clothing for the children . Our volunteers put together a family pack complete with healthy snacks for the kids . We gave C clothing for the kids , and provided him with a donated gift card to purchase some additional clothes .
I went to our storage room and found some presents to occupy the children over the coming weeks – C was grateful , his children appeared more so !
St Margaret ’ s News 8 November 2021