Charlie’s Story

by Maritime
Categories: News Archive, Uncategorized
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    Charlie Pittman was on his way to end his life, but instead he took a detour into the doors of The Salvation Army men’s shelter.  Here is Charlie’s story;

    What brought you to The Salvation Army Centre of Hope twelve years ago?
    I had been sleeping outside for four days and was having suicidal thoughts.  I had just lost everything I owned, not due to an addiction, but because of severe health issues.  I ended up sleeping on a park bench in Halifax.  People told me to go to The Salvation Army, but my depression left me feeling like no one would be able to help me.  I was planning on jumping off the MacDonald Bridge, but at the last minute I ended up going to The Salvation Army, and it was the best thing I could’ve done for myself.  It isn’t easy to walk in the doors and say you need help, but I’m so thankful I did. 

    How did The Salvation Army support you?
    I still remember when I walked through the doors, the intake worker told me to take it one day at a time.  They helped me to move forward, to find stability, get a job, and move into a home.  If it wasn’t for The Salvation Army, I wouldn’t be here today.  

    You are now a Salvation Army employee.  What is your role?
    I am a client support worker.  I help people who come in to utilize our services.  I assist them with their medications, help them get to appointments and begin the process of getting them back on their feet. 
    I not only complete the intake application, it is my job to find out what brings the person in and see if there are any health related issues. People arrive at The Centre of Hope for a variety of reasons.  It could be because of a house fire, a loss of job, addictions, or mental health issues to name a few. Once you find out the reason, you can help them get the support they need.  

    Do you feel your past helps you connect with the clients?
    I believe my history helps me to connect with the clients.  I was homeless myself and my philosophy is that you need to treat the clients like real people, and not assume that you know why they need your help. When I go home at the end of the day, I know it was a good day if I’ve put a smile on a client’s face, that’s worth more than money to me.