Jenny Farquahrson

Why volunteer – Why Curtains – Why me?

It was a dreich winter’s day Glasgow in 1948 or thereabouts. The Glasgow Corporation bus had stopped longer the usual outside the Great Eastern Hotel – a building known as Model Lodging House. “The Lodging House was for those who have no home”, Mum said but the “Model” part was a mystery to both of us.

From the top deck of the bus the windows were so dirty that we were only just able to see the lack of curtains. “When I get older I’m going to do something about curtains for the homeless people, Mum” I said. 

It has taken years to fulfil this pledge but through the privilege of volunteering with Fresh Start, it is finally accomplished.

Archie Halliday

When I retired in 1994 I didn’t feel I wanted to sit back and do nothing as there was plenty life in me yet so I offered my services as a volunteer to the Ark Trust in New Street. After a few years the Ark closed because of a land deal.

 
I then became a volunteer with Fresh Start, first of all with the Hit Squad and now as a PAT tester. At first I thought I was giving something back to society, but in hindsight I have received much more in return – new friends, lots of laughs and a great feeling of being part of a dedicated team. Long may it continue!