Patricia, helper

For the last 2 years or so I have been supporting Rita a close friend of
mine. Rita has been very ill. I would go around to her flat and do a bit of
shopping for her. I would often go with her to the hospital or the GP. Rita
would phone me and say I have an appointment tomorrow, and I would
go over to her place, and accompany her. Rita did not like to go to alone.
Sometimes I would meet her outside the hospital, and go in together. I
cannot see the ones I love suffer through their difficult times, and they can
trust and rely on me.
I’ve been caring for my dearest friends and trying to pass on my strength
to them, helping others has made me feel my own self worth. For many
years I’ve been fighting alongside other people living in poverty. We want
our voices to be heard and we want to be respected and not to be washed
away. Those who I’ve become close friends with - I can honestly say - it has
been a great honour to be part of they lives.
I have been an active member with ATD Fourth World for several years;
I once had the chance to be a delegate at the United Nations in New York:
where I spoke out on behalf of all those who encounter poverty.

Hazel, voluntary worker

I work in the Salvation Army shop, doing voluntary work.
Volunteering at the charity shop during the week gives me lots of
enjoyment.  I’ve gotten to know my work colleagues and some of the customers so it feels like home.