Stories | HARP | Southend's homeless charity

Stories

At HARP, we believe that with the right combination of shelter, support and educational, confidence boosting activities everyone has a good chance of overcoming homelessness. We help everyone who walks through our doors to address any issues that might surround their homelessness and help them get back on their feet again. Here are just a few stories from some of the people we have helped...

"I know with the support of HARP I will be fine" - Clive's story

Born and bred in Leigh-on-Sea, 57-year-old Clive lived in a boatshed with no heating or running water before finding HARP. Read his story.

“Without HARP, I’d still be on the streets!”- Jess's Story

Jess slept rough for the first time when she was just 11 years old. At age 25, she again found herself on the streets but then found HARP.

“I didn’t believe that I had a warm home for the first time in so long” - Joinah's story

Joinah became homeless after leaving an unhappy marriage and suffering from severe depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress

“It feels like I’ve been given a ticket to my own life” - Ray's Story

Ray was sleeping in his car when he discovered HARP. Now he is back on his feet and getting involved in the local community.

"I was terrified!" - Jack's story

25-year-old Jack came to HARP after being evicted and struggling with addiction. Jack is now at university and wants to help others.

"HARP saved me" - Mark's Story

Mark now works for our property team but he initially came to HARP when he found himself rough sleeping after losing his job.

"Volunteering is good for me" says Simon

Simon lives in HARP's supported housing provision and started volunteering while he on the waiting list for a local housing association.

"Don't Give Up!" Says Former HARP Resident On World Homeless Day

Having moved out of HARP and into her own council flat, Marie has an important message for others facing homelessness: "Don't give up!"

"HARP grounded me so I could find my footing again"

Lindsey's rollercoaster journey included severe mental illness triggered by a violent sexual assault. She is now woking towards a PhD.

"Coming to HARP is the best thing I ever did"

After escaping abusive relationships and alcohol addiction, Vicky overcame homelessness in our single gender housing, White Heather House.