The text below is from a real visit by an SVP volunteer, the details have been changed slightly to protect the volunteer and the family involved but the key details are included unchanged.
It is not meant in any way to exploit either the work of our volunteers or those we assist but to share the real and troubling challenges many families in Ireland now face and the long-term commitment Vincent de Paul shows to these families.
A Baptism - A Volunteer's Story
“One morning early last year, we met Aine, she was 31, had two children and weighed about 6½ stone. The flat was in darkness and almost empty. The curtains were closed and it was easy to see that she was depressed or at least very down.
Aine started to tell her story, a litany of sadness and neglect, from being abused as a teenager, to a succession of cruel and violent boyfriends.
She was behind on her bills and on medication for depression. She felt her eldest son was playing her and his father against each other; her youngest was a beautiful three month old baby boy.
Despite the fact that Aine couldn’t read or write, it was easy to see when she talked about baking with the kids or making bits and pieces around the home that she was a bright, creative girl by nature .
Aine wanted to get the baby christened but couldn’t afford to and felt too ashamed to have anyone back to her home because there wasn’t any furniture or anything to give even if they could sit down!
When we left we were a bit emotional ourselves but we knew we could do something to help.
When we arrived with the promise of some furniture, and a few treats to help make the christening special Aine cried her heart out with happiness. We brought a few brochures on AWARE and local literacy courses, some food, some vitamins and a little help with her electricity bill to get her back on track.
The next time we visited the curtains were wide open; her new sofa had pride of place (a bargaintown special offer!), she had painted the kitchen and the living room, and was taking the kids swimming later that day. We still pop in, sometimes she needs help but very often it’s just to say hello, to make sure she’s alright and to let her know we’re here if she needs us. I can’t say she’s put on a whole lot of weight but she seems happier, we’ll keep an eye on her though”
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