Together, we're helping end homelessness in South Australia
18 years
walking together during National Homelessness Week to help end homelessness
$5.2 million
raised to provide meals, showers, healthcare and pathways to homefulness through Hutt St Centre
25,000+
people in South Australia have participated in Walk a Mile in My Boots since 2008
Thousands
of lives changed through access to practical support, care and the chance to rebuild
Bailey's Story
Bailey* never thought he would find himself homeless, especially in the middle of a brutal Adelaide winter.
He had a difficult childhood, moving frequently and living with his abusive stepfather. Eager to make his own way in the world, Bailey moved out and his future looked brighter. But when his long-term housemate ended up in jail, things got worse.
He was left with no where to go and winter was fast approaching.
“It all fell apart and I spent four months sleeping rough in Adelaide. It was cold, really cold. I found three blankets to keep with me when I was sleeping rough. And then one day there was a storm, so I had to move to escape the storm. I moved to the Franklin Street bus terminal.”
That winter, Bailey didn’t know where else to turn. Then he heard about Hutt St Centre.
“I was a bit nervous walking into Hutt St for the first time. I thought that I could’ve been rejected and turned away.”
Bailey started coming in for meals and to use the laundry. He was so grateful for the warmth and comfort that Hutt St provided.
“I started coming for breakfasts and lunches at Hutt St, and using the laundry on a few occasions too to wash my clothes. I got to have a hot shower after sleeping in the cold and rain – I was so glad to have a hot shower.”
Where your fundraising goes
Hutt St Centre’s vital health and wellbeing services, like healthy meals, hot showers and medical care, are funded entirely by the generous support of people like you.
Last year, the Walk a Mile in My Boots community helped make this life-changing support possible:
2,134
people found life-changing help at Hutt St Centre
66,443
nutritious meals warmed hearts
30,009
material aid items gave comfort
15,990
showers offered a fresh start
2,968
health check-ups renewed hope
4,291
loads of washing restored dignity
Jordan's Story
I never really grieved when Mum passed away - I was caught up in everything else.”
Jordan’s* life changed forever when her mum passed away. At just twenty, she found herself on the streets, struggling with substance use and unable to cope with the weight of her loss.
Without a safe place to stay and no one to turn to, Jordan began sleeping rough, finding shelter wherever she could.
“In winter there was one time I slept in a park – but only for one night, I couldn’t handle the icy cold. I was staying in different people’s houses, and sleeping rough in abandoned toilets and houses to keep me out of the weather.”
When Jordan walked through the doors of Hutt St Centre, she didn’t know what to expect.
“I felt crusty walking into Hutt St for the first time because I hadn’t had a shower yet. But after that I felt awesome. It felt really welcoming, the workers at Hutt St were kind and friendly.”
Jordan was able to connect with her case manager, Libby, who supported her into a rehabilitation service, helping her leave the streets behind and begin her journey to recovery.
With Libby’s help, Jordan found a safe home where she could heal. Today, she’s reconnecting with her daughters and thriving in her first-ever job.
“Life is great for me now. My workplace loves me. My normal week now involves work, going shopping, and relaxing at home – just normal, everyday stuff. And seeing my babies.”
“Thank you for your help. With everything that Hutt St Centre does, it’s good to have people like that who help homeless fellas. It gives people like us hope and strength. They’re so kind. It’s awesome.”
