George’s story

Arncliffe resident George, who was homeless prior to moving into the estate, has embraced his new community and even began his own cooking tutorials for fellow tenants.

George was living in his car for months after having been released from jail and struggling with depression and anxiety. He was initially housed in a 1-bedroom apartment in Arncliffe, supported by not-for-profit organisation Neami National. After he got joint custody of his children, we helped him move into a 3-bedroom apartment in the block, so that he could have his family visit.

Living in the property, with the support of Evolve Housing’s Arncliffe Community Hub, has given George a new lease on life. He has participated in many social activities with his fellow residents, including beach visits, and also got involved with the on-site community garden. “[Living in Arncliffe has had a] big impact, huge impact … socially, I’m talking to a couple of people now instead of locking myself away. People are there and genuine and helping. Carrie-Ann and Paea are the best people ever; they’re genuine,” George said.

As well as making new friends with his neighbours, George has been holding cooking classes at the property, sharing his skills and passion for food with other tenants. 7 people attended his first class, in which George showed how to cook chicken schnitzel, mashed potatoes, butter and honey carrots, mushroom gravy, caramel slice and cherry ripe.

“I did cooking for three years back when I was a young fella, but I’ve got a passion for cooking. I lost it for a couple of years, and now it’s back. This is just my way out of the depression and anxiety; cooking and feeling happy. It seems to make other people happy too.”