Christchurch Community Ministries: Walking Alongside in Times of Need

When Rosie walked into the Christchurch Community Ministries (CM) centre, she was simply looking for food. After weeks off work due to COVID and then pneumonia, with no sick leave available, she was struggling to make ends meet.

During her visit, Rosie met with a Wellbeing Worker who listened to her story and referred her to our Financial Mentor (FM). The FM provided immediate support and helped Rosie create a kai plan to ease the pressure while she recovered. Even now, although Rosie is back at work, she continues to receive guidance as she catches up on bills and rebuilds financial stability.

As trust grew, Rosie shared more of her past and was referred through to the social worker. She revealed years of physical and mental abuse during a previous marriage, leaving her with low self-esteem.

Recently, she disclosed even deeper trauma - childhood abuse and the loss of a loved one. Through wraparound care from via the Positive Lifestyle Programme (PLP), Rosie is learning to trust again, building confidence, and finding tools to heal. Her goal is simple yet profound: “Enjoying life again.”

·        Note: This is a true story, but the name has been changed to protect Rosie’s identity and dignity.