“I was so relieved when I found Depaul.”

Meet Liam and his son James,

“ …I became homeless just one month after my 18th birthday. Things were so bad at home. Me and my Dad didn’t get along at all so I had to leave. It was my first time being on my own; I didn’t really know what to do. I spent a few nights on my friend’s sofa but he couldn’t keep me. I ended up in and out of hostels or sleeping rough. On the worst nights I had to sleep behind a tree in the corner of a park. All I had was a hoodie and a thin blue sleeping bag. I wouldn’t have admitted it at the time, but I’ve never been so afraid.

I was so relieved when I found Depaul.

But then, just a few weeks after finding my feet at Depaul, I found out my girlfriend was pregnant. I was 18 and in shock. But when the news settled in I realised I could do this – this was my chance to change things for us all.

When little James was born it was the best feeling ever but it was also so scary. There was a little person here who I was now responsible for. I knew then I had a lot of growing up to do and I had to do more with my life. I re-applied to do my Leaving Cert. I hadn’t been very good at school so this was a big step but the staff said they’d help me all the way. I knew I needed it and I really wanted James to be proud of me. Studying was tough but it was the maths that really got to me. If it wasn’t for Pat, a Project Worker in Depaul, I think I would have failed.

I was delighted in May to find out that I got a place of my own; it was the best news ever! Finally, somewhere for me to take James to stay. It was just two weeks before my Leaving Cert though. I didn’t know how I’d manage a move, look after James and study all at the same time. It was so stressful.

The staff at Depaul were a godsend. They organised the gas and electricity, got me cutlery, pots and pans and even set up a cot for James! They were amazing – they really felt like a family.

The day after finishing my Leaving Cert I moved into my new home. I just couldn’t have been happier! My life has completely changed for the better. I can’t thank Depaul enough for all their help and support; it definitely wouldn’t have happened without them.”

Liam has finished his exams and is still thriving in his new home with James.

If you would like to support people like Liam and James, you can do so by making a donation. We would truly value any contribution you could make.

Please note: The names above have been changed and models were used in the photo to protect the service user’s identity.

This and other stories can be found by clicking this link and signing up for their newsletter at the bottom of the Depaul International donation page (and give ’em a donation while you’re there!)