Over the years, Lukasz has faced hardship, homelessness, depression and the daily struggle to make ends meet.
Before the support from Cash First, Lukasz was living in very difficult conditions. His mattress was in such poor shape that it had become dangerous and he had no working cooker after it overheated and broke suddenly. After approaching Aberdeen Cyrenians, who has been supporting Lukasz since he first moved to the city, they directed him to the Cash First Flexible Crisis Fund, where he was able to buy a new mattress.
“I was really happy to hear I received the funding. It was life-saving for me to receive this extra cash."
"My mattress was terrible. I had to cut holes into it because the metal springs were poking through. I had to put old clothes in to pad it out and then tape around it to hold it all together. Before, I was sleeping like a homeless person. Now, I’m sleeping like a prince,” Lukasz exclaims.
With some of the spare money, Lukasz was able to buy a new microwave to replace his broken cooker: "I could have never afforded to buy the mattress or microwave. I am unable to save month-to-month because I have so many things I need to spend money on - food, bills and other essentials."
While Lukasz is still working through challenges, the boost from Cash First has helped him to take small, meaningful steps forward.
“I have spent years now sitting in the house. I don’t want to do that anymore. It’s difficult when you haven’t socialised in a long time so jumping into full-time work isn’t easy. I would like a part-time job at least.”
Encouraged by the support from Cash First and Aberdeen Cyrenians, Lukasz has begun doing voluntary work at CFINE and hopes to transition into paid employment soon.
Speaking with heartfelt appreciation, Lukasz says: “Aberdeen Cyrenians basically saved my life. I was homeless, I had no job. I might not be alive today if I hadn’t received the help through them. I really appreciate what Cash First has done for me too. The support has made such a difference to my life and I can’t thank them enough.”
