The Give Where You Live Foundation’s Pitch Up Geelong event provided a platform for three community organisations to share their stories of impact, build support, make new connections and raise vital funds. This year’s event inspired laughter, tears, and generosity that has the potential to change lives.
None more so than for local man Andrew, who pitched on behalf of Lazarus Community Centre alongside General Manager, Jade Hamilton.
Andrew, who opened the Pitch by sharing “I’m homeless, but I’m not hopeless because I have a place like Lazarus,” had been living out of his car for 10 months.
In a heartwarming moment during the event, Andrew connected with the Department of Housing who offered him a permanent home.
We are so pleased to be able to share with you that Andrew has moved into his new house and came into the Give Where You Live Foundation office to share his gratitude.
Andrew thanked Lazarus for their ongoing support and the Give Where You Live Foundation for the opportunity to participate in Pitch Up Geelong.
“To the lifesavers of Lazarus, you have my eternal gratitude, admiration, love, and respect. Thank you all for caring, not just for myself but everyone that comes through the door. Your support is invaluable to those of us in need. The best decision I ever made was coming through the front door at Lazarus.”
“Your constant support, empathy, and encouragement gave me the strength to get through this trial with dignity and purpose. Sharing my joy with all of you that were with me made it super special. You are a shining beacon of light in a dark world. You will always be my heroes.”
“I would also like to say a massive thank you to The Give Where You Live Foundation, as without them putting on the Pitch Up event, I would never have had this opportunity.”
“I will continue to be a voice for the homeless. I will continue to advocate for change, particularly regarding people’s perceptions of a ‘homeless person’. Something has to be done about this crisis, and it takes more than just a couple of people. This change needs to come from the top. From people who are in positions of power. From the people, who are supposed to be looking after their most vulnerable”.