At Christmas, most of us look forward to warmth, comfort, and time with the people we love. But for people experiencing homelessness, Christmas can be the hardest day of the year.
Rhys knows this better than most. He woke up homeless on Christmas Day not once, but twice – freezing cold, soaked through, and alone.
“While other people are warm and safe and with their families, you’re having the worst day of your life.”
Rhys is sharing his story this Christmas to show how your support for Emmaus can offer far more than a roof – it can provide safety, stability, community, and hope.
Looking for a place to belong
Taken into care at the age of 13, Rhys didn’t have the easiest start in life. Despite many people’s experiences of the care system, his experience was full of kindness from the people who supported him.
He found purpose early on, too, following in the footsteps of his military family. Rhys joined the army cadets and the moment he turned 18, he joined the army.
But just weeks into his training, his dream ended abruptly with a diagnosis of Functional Neurological Disorder, which caused him to black out at random moments.
The loss was devastating and led to a breakdown in his relationships, leaving him with no place to go. He sofa surfed for weeks before ending up on the streets, sleeping anywhere he thought was safe.
For two years, Rhys’s life was a daily cycle of survival, searching for food, asking the council for help, and taking on odd jobs wherever he could.
“I lost far more than a roof over my head. I lost my connections to other people. I lost my sense of self.”
A message that changed everything
At his lowest point, Rhys put out a message on social media. He explained that he didn’t want to be homeless and needed help to get back on his feet.
Just three hours later, he received a message that would change everything: a person who recommended Emmaus.
Within 48 hours, Rhys arrived at an Emmaus community and for the first time in two years, he had a room of his own.
“I’ll never forget the first shower. Later I lay on the bed. It felt weird. It was two years since I’d slept in a bed.”
More than a roof
At Emmaus, Rhys found far more than a warm bed. He found safety, stability, and person-centred support which helped him rediscover his confidence and sense of purpose.
With the support of his community, Rhys completed a degree in History and Politics. He gained a PAT testing qualification, took part in training and activities, and built up work experience.
His time at Emmaus also gave him the space rebuild relationships with his family, and is now a proud dad to his daughter.
“My mum is back in my life and I have a daughter. I’m determined her childhood won’t be like mine.”
Today, he still experiences blackouts, but living in community means he is surrounded by people who understand what’s happening and can help keep him safe.
Help someone like Rhys this Christmas
Rhys’s story shows what’s possible when someone experiencing homelessness receives not just a bed, but a community, a purpose, and a place to belong.
This Christmas, Rhys is thinking of the people going through the same fear and loneliness he once felt.
With your support, we can welcome more people like him into Emmaus communities across the UK, giving them the chance to rebuild their lives with dignity, purpose and hope.
Please send a gift this Christmas and help open the door for the next person who needs more than a roof.