Speaking about her experiences, Alex reflects on entering the Simon Community Belfast Foyer for the first time.
Story
Alex
I remember my first 24 hours; it was scary. I’ve never been in an environment with such a close group of people living together. Financially, I didn’t have anything sorted out. I didn’t understand the benefit system. That’s when the staff stepped in – they advocated for me and helped me with the benefits. They kept me strong whenever I felt like I couldn’t keep myself up.
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James
James became homeless after the breakdown of his long-term relationship. Despite having a steady, full-time job, as he was originally from England, he had no support-network here in NI. Moving back to his hometown was not an option for James, as his children, job and friends were here, he had built a life and didn’t want to lose that along with his home.
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Aaron
As a single dad, life changed drastically when I became the full-time caregiver for my two young children. At first, we were living between friends’ and family members’ homes, but it became clear we needed a more stable solution. After contacting the Housing Executive, we ended up in a hotel—our “home” for five challenging weeks.
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Ciaran
Ciaran’s story is all too common in Northern Ireland. He and his wife had been renting their home for seven years, always paying their rent on time.
It was the only home their two-year old son had ever known. Until one day their landlord decided to sell their home and everything changed. Suddenly, they had nowhere to go.
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