NWCG founder Paul returned from New Zealand this morning, his well-deserved break cut short by a commitment in Caloundra. However, his brief stopover in Brisbane was jam-packed with activity, highlighting the ever-growing need and the incredible generosity of the community.
A Community Steps Up:
Paul's initial call for donations had yielded remarkable results. Multiple individuals donated significant sums, including a heart-warming $1,000 contribution from a lovely couple and another $1,000 from NOW - Business Building Community. Adding to this incredible support, the Lions Club Samford QLD also pledged a $1,000 donation.
Equipping Those in Need:
Armed with these resources, Paul wasted no time restocking NWCG's supplies. He purchased 14 new tents (including a requested swag), 21 air mattresses (all that were available), sleeping bags, socks, underwear, lanterns, pegs, and more – completely filling the NWCG van. Thank you to BCF for their ongoing support.
Unprecedented Demand at Musgrave Park:
Paul's eagerness to reconnect with the community at Musgrave Park was evident. He stopped at Wickham Park on his way, setting up four tents and distributing additional supplies along with Nick. Upon reaching Musgrave, the scale of need became clear. The number of tents had skyrocketed to 56, with 54 of them supplied by NWCG – a stark illustration of the growing demand. Paul took the opportunity to connect with new residents and express his appreciation to existing ones.
Building Partnerships:
The day offered an opportunity to explore new collaborations. Paul and Nick visited Emmanuel's City Mission, a drop-in center for those experiencing homelessness. The tour provided valuable insight into their services and allowed NWCG to express gratitude for their invaluable work.
A Touching Reunion:
An emotional reunion occurred when Paul encountered "Mr. Swag," a long-time supporter whom NWCG had assisted previously. The man's decline in health was a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness. Paul offered continued support and reconnected with an old friend.
The Power of Small Gestures:
While walking a woman back to Musgrave Park, Paul witnessed the impact of even the most basic interactions. A simple compliment on her pants underscored the importance of building confidence and fostering social interaction on the journey through homelessness.
Gratitude and Moving Forward:
This whirlwind visit allowed Paul to express his immense gratitude to the countless NWCG volunteers who keep the organization running. From Chris and Nicky assisting at his home to Dani, Sonja, and Karen supporting the evening stand, their dedication is truly inspiring.
The work continues:
With a heart full of appreciation for the community's generosity and a firm grasp of the ever-growing need, Paul heads to Caloundra. Nick remains committed, setting up additional tents and preparing for the evening stand. NWCG remains dedicated to providing a safe and dignified place to sleep for as many as possible. Stay tuned for further updates!
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