Happy National Volunteer Week! With over 300 volunteers at Hutt St Centre, this is a must-celebrate occasion in our calendar to recognise the kind-hearted people who help keep our doors open.

Introducing Sue. She has been volunteering with Hutt St Centre for the last 18 months, preparing and serving meals to people at risk of or experiencing homelessness.

“I work in the kitchen on Tuesday and Friday. It’s taken a while, but I have gotten to know people a bit better in conversations while serving meals. Most of the conversations I have with people are superficial because I don’t want to intrude too much into what they’re going through.”

“I’ve learnt who only eats vegetables, who is likely to want more tomato sauce, and which people like extra custard with dessert. Many people are very appreciative for the meals and service.”

Having known about Hutt St Centre for a long time, one day she decided to explore the option of volunteering, and has found it an eye-opening experience.

“Before I started, I thought Hutt St Centre just fed people. I’m amazed at the breadth of services provided here. And also learning that homelessness is more than living in a park, there’s also boarding houses and couch-surfing for example. I hope more  take the step and come in to Hutt St Centre so they can know what help is available. “

This year’s National Volunteer Week theme is: Your Year to Volunteer. Sue is embodying this theme by helping to mentor a new volunteer with disabilities, ensuring they can volunteer at Hutt St Centre comfortably and with confidence.

Sue’s advice to anyone thinking of volunteering is simple.

“Give it a go. I think most volunteers feel like we get more than we give from the sense of doing something worthwhile in the community.”

From all of us at Hutt St Centre, thank you Sue and to our 300+ volunteers for generously giving your time, skills, and passion to helping people facing homelessness.