Share the Journey

11 October 2019

Melissa Winnell

Living with insecurity; whether it is financial, physical, housing, health, family, or social, is often relentless for many across Sydney and our nation. It can be quite exhausting because instead of living out of a place of peace and flourishing, our anxiety and fear are driving us to just get by.   

At Streetlevel we understand the strong link between feelings of insecurity and the negative impact it has on a person’s mental health and well-being. We do our best to provide both physically safe and secure places, but also the kind of safety in our community that comes from people finding their place to belong and contribute no matter their story. That whatever their vulnerability, it will be met with welcome, grace and support. This helps us to become a place of rest, refuge and restoration; a place to work towards flourishing mental health and well-being. Where anyone can feel secure in knowing that they can come as they are and find acceptance.  

October is mental health awareness month, and the theme is ‘Share the Journey’. And that describes well what we do. We keep it pretty simple, but across our spaces we share the journey by being present with one another in the good times and the tough times.  We try to be genuine and speak honestly. We value sharing stories and laughter, and are a community that speaks words of life and encouragement. This has become part of the fabric of our community and happens no matter what we are doing. Whether it’s while practicing English, going for a walk together, washing up after church, learning a new skill or having a meal together; it’s not just the activity, but the opportunity to share the journey and be there for each other that is important.