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“Now I’m in a private rented home. I’m building my life again.”

 

 

Rebuild a life after homelessness

Maria had just come home from work when a drunk driver crashed through her living room wall. In seconds, her flat was destroyed, she was injured, and she lost the home she had lived in for 12 years. Her landlord said he couldn’t begin repairs until insurance came through. The council said she didn’t meet their emergency housing criteria because she was a tenant, not a leaseholder. Maria had to leave and pay for a hotel that night.

She then stayed with a friend, but he had a heart attack and died. With nowhere else to go, Maria drifted between buses, hospital waiting rooms and the streets. Much of her homelessness was hidden, but the toll was not: she had fibroids, suspected cancer, and anaemia so severe she needed a blood transfusion.

When Maria arrived at the Crisis Croydon Skylight, she was unwell, grieving and exhausted. With dedicated one-to-one support, health advocacy and someone who truly listened, she slowly rebuilt her life and now has a safe, permanent home she loves.

How support from Crisis helped Maria rebuild

When Maria came to Crisis Croydon Skylight, she finally found people who listened and acted.

Because of supporters like you, we were able to help her:

  • Secure safe emergency accommodation

After months of waiting, Maria finally had somewhere stable to stay.

  • Navigate complex health challenges

Crisis health advocate Susan attended hospital and cancer-centre appointments with her, making sure Maria understood her treatment and never faced intimidating moments alone.

  • Access psychological support

Maria worked with a clinical psychologist to help her manage trauma, grief and anxiety.

  • Restore confidence and connection

Art and wellbeing activities at the Skylight helped Maria rediscover community and rebuild self-belief.

  • Access financial support

Her successful PIP appeal strengthened her stability and independence.

 

Today, Maria has a private rented home she loves. She cooks, she feels secure, and she is rebuilding her life step by step.

 

“Crisis was the door to my salvation, they helped with everything possible.”
— Maria, former Crisis member

How you can help someone like Maria

This year, you can help someone like Maria take their next step out of homelessness.

Your support helps people move into a place where they can regain stability and rebuild their future.

Your gift could help someone:

  • Find safe, permanent housing
  • Access essential healthcare and advocacy
  • Cook again – with basic kitchen equipment and food vouchers
  • Move toward employment – with training, coaching and job opportunities

Donate now

Contact the supporter helpline

Please contact our Supporter Care team if you have any questions about making a donation to Crisis. You can also contact them if you would like to change the way we communicate with you.

supporter.helpline@crisis.org.uk

08000 384838

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