My name is Charinjit
I am originally from India. I came to Australia in July 1984, forty-one years ago now. I came with my family, but I do not have contact with them anymore. These days, I live alone in a granny flat.
I first came to Newtown Mission maybe ten years ago. Back then, I only came sometimes. There was not much then, nothing regular, it was quieter. But in the last five years, something changed. It became a real community. You can get so much help from the people here. Staff and volunteers care for people, and that made me feel welcome.
I do not really have friends, and I live by myself. So, I thought, why not go? I do not have anything else to do. Now, I come here every week on Wednesday and Friday for lunch. Every day I come here, I see people, talk a little, share a smile. It is simple, but it gives me something to look forward to.
I had a triple bypass surgery, so I am careful with what I eat and drink. Here, the food is healthy and fresh. There is always a salad, I love salad. I also walk a lot. When I first started coming to Newtown Mission regularly, I would take the train and bus. One day I thought, what is the point of sitting all day? So, I started walking from Sydenham Station to Newtown Mission. At first, just two or three days a week. Then four, then five, I even walked all the way back home.
My knees hurt sometimes, too much, but I tell myself not to push too hard. Still, I try to walk at least five days a week. It is better than nothing. It keeps me moving. Keeps me feeling alive.
The people here at Newtown Mission are very friendly. They are kind. If you need anything, they will try to help you, no matter who you are. Your religion, your beliefs, your skin colour, it does not matter. Everyone’s welcome.
Some people have no one to talk to at home. But here, they can find someone. They can talk, laugh a little, feel good again, and then go home lighter. That is important. Sometimes, it is everything. For me, it is.
If I meet someone who is feeling alone, I will tell them: go to Newtown Mission. Meet people. Have good, healthy food. If you need help, they will try to help you.
It is a beautiful place. I feel like I have found my family here. Everyone is lovely. It feels comfortable, safe. If you need something, you can just ask. People listen. They care.
I find it a very nice place.