Our Emmaus accommodation in Coventry provided Ali with a roof over his head and a supportive community, when he needed it most:

“I have a drinking problem. It got to the stage where I was drinking cider every night. I was living with my mum and she’d basically had enough; she said that if I didn’t stop drinking, she’d have to kick me out.”

Our charity offered Ali the stability he needed to turn his life around:

“Eventually I want to start my own business. I used to work as a gardener-landscaper for five years and I really enjoyed it. In the short-term, I’m looking forward to getting involved in gardening here at Emmaus Coventry & Warwickshire, helping to improve the grounds around the accommodation. I’m already planning where to construct a vegetable patch.

The best part of Emmaus is definitely the people; there’s a relaxed, homely feel which I really appreciate; it feels like being part of a family.”

We’re proud to have been a part of Ali’s journey. So, on this International Day of Happiness, take a moment to read Ali’s story, in his own words.