A House of Wairua 

I had a house for over 12 years, but then they sold the property. Not long after, I found myself living the street life. I think I ended up on the streets because I didn’t have anyone. I was addicted to methamphetamine, and any money I had went on that. It still wasn’t enough, so I started hustling to get by.

I was living in Whanganui then, but eventually came to Wellington with a friend.
When I got here, I went back to hustling to afford food, and I was living on the streets. For about eight months, I was rough-sleeping, in and out of hospital, and just trying to survive.

Then someone told me about DCM. They said I could go there and get a cup of tea, so I did. That cup of tea led to getting a key worker, and within weeks, they helped me into temporary housing. They realised I wasn’t getting the right benefit and sorted it out for me. They talked to me about permanent housing, and I said, “All I want is a roof over my head and a Laz-E-Boy!”

DCM found me a place at Te Ki a Alasdair, and it was pure joy. I’ve just turned 60, and they told me, “This is your home now. It’s for life. We want to see you here as a koro (grandfather). No going backwards now.” Hearing that felt awesome. My favourite thing about having a home is being able to sit in my chair, relax, and look at the beautiful lights at night. And watching TV! 

"There’s a beautiful spirit here. It's changed my life."

When I was in transitional housing, I decided to give up drugs, and I’ve done it. DCM supported me the whole way. They’re still with me on this journey, making sure I have what I need. [My key workers] keep me on track, and it’s bloody awesome to have them on my side.

Having this home gives me the “oomph” to keep things tidy and do the right things. This is my house of enjoyment and of spirituality - my house of wairua (spirit/soul). I even have money to buy groceries now. DCM found someone to take me shopping and to my appointments.
 

It’s been a journey to get here. I had to find my mana (power) and my pride again. Before, I was always asking, “Do you have any change?” but now that’s all behind me. I’m treated like a man now, and I feel like one.

"I thought I would be on the streets in Wellington for life. Then I met DCM."

DCM helps people get housing and luxuries like I have now: a TV and a double bed. They treat everyone with respect, even those of us from the streets. They do so much for people.

Now, I’m warm, I’m secure, and I’m treated right. I feel like I can only go higher and higher. I’ve got a roof over my head, and I’m going to keep it for life and enjoy it to the end.