Whilst I was working (pre kids) a lady I worked with and I decided to volunteer our time helping the Vinnie’s Van. We called the St Vincent de Paul office in Merrylands and found out we were required to do a 2 day training course, held in their offices. So off we went and completed our training. The subject that really impacted on me was the “suicide” component. I couldn’t believe how many lost souls felt that was the only option in their darkest days, and on top of that the highest rate was men in the outback due to the struggles farmers face on our Australian land. I was saddened by this fact.

So, after completing the training we had our first rostered night out. We travelled to Merrylands, made sandwiches to hand out, packed the van with all necessary supplies and away we went – with 4 others we hadn’t met before – we got to know them really well as they were our team for all our rostered nights. We arrived at our first stop Penrith, I couldn’t believe how many people turned up to have a chat and see a friendly face and the gratitude they showed us for sharing our time with them, It was overwhelming. After we packed up, our next stop was Parramatta. What a different group of people we encountered there!

Now these were real “homeless” people but still humans, who just like us wanted validation that they meant something to anyone and the fact that we showed up to chat WITH them was amazing to know I could give a small piece of me to them and have it appreciated meant the world to me. BUT, they gave me something in return, humility – I guess without them even knowing.

I loved the nights I spent in the Van, the volunteers with us were wonderful people. There was one person I remember vividly who came to our Penrith stop, Ron was his name, he was the sweetest man. What I remember the most about him was his shock when I knew how he had his Milo. I guess he couldn’t believe that someone took an interest in a tiny detail about HIM and the way he liked his Milo white with 1 sugar.

This is why I really wanted to do our fundraiser for Vinnie’s Van, I have experienced the wonderful service they provide and I know first hand that it is run purely by volunteers 365 days of the year and all their supplies are donated.

With this movie night, I know we can help make more of a difference in people lives. Rachel has a lot going on at the moment so our great friend Amanda will be helping organise and run this event. So get your tickets today and help us drive the van!!!

Jess