The 45-year-old has battled with alcoholism and problem gambling for most of his adult life. He’s drifted in and out of homelessness for the best part of a decade, and has also suffered from anxiety and depression.
This time when Gary arrived at Mission Australia’s Fairlight Centre, which supports homeless, alcoholic or drug-addicted men to make the transition back into mainstream society, he was determined to make positive changes to his life once and for all.
“He was in a bad way when he came here,” said Kevin Kingsbeer, the centre’s Team Leader and Case Manager. “He’d been drinking 12 to 14 litres of wine a day and was in and out of our overnight beds. But he was at that stage when he was really open to help.”
Kevin and staff suggested to Gary that they work together to admit him to a detox program. Part of the plan involved Gary working to improve his general hygiene and living skills.
The ‘make-over’ began with a haircut: “I said if you get a haircut and buy some hair and skin products, I’ll bring in some of my old clothes from home – and he was willing to give it a go,” said Kevin.
After a haircut, shower and change of clothes, Kevin took a photo to show Gary the difference – the response was a big smile and a ‘Hey, I look good’.
“From that day on his whole demeanour has changed,” Kevin said. “He has a new-found self-confidence, is walking with his head held high and with a spring in his step.”
With support from the team at Fairlight, Gary managed to curb his gambling and save some money for new clothes.
“I told him that $200 would buy him four new outfits and he was amazed,” said Kevin. “He had literally never shopped for new clothing, so he had no idea what they cost.”
After a visit to the local mall – a new experience after so many years living on the fringe of society – Gary was kitted out with new jeans, cargo pants, shirts, T-shirts, shoes and underwear.
“He was so wrapped and the transformation was absolutely incredible,” said Kevin. “The other residents all commented on how good he looked. The whole process has also been very uplifting and rewarding for our staff.”
Gary recently started walking for an hour a day as part of an exercise program. And since his ‘make-over’ he’s also got back into contact with his parents, who were so overjoyed they emailed the Fairlight Centre to thank them for their support and the photos they sent.
“He looks good after all this time and seems well,” they wrote. “Let’s hope he can overcome the disease and get the help he needs.”
The good news is that Gary is receiving the help he needs. This week he entered a three-month detox program with a new sense of pride, confidence and a willingness to succeed. On completion, he will return to our Fairlight Centre where he’ll be supported to move into independent living.
In Kevin’s words: “It’s amazing what a good pair of pants, shirt, vest and shoes can do!”
Well done, Gary, and all the best over the coming months.
*Name has been changed.
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