Client Story: Mark Gillam's Second Chance
Just days ago, a job interview felt like a distant possibility for Mark Gillam. It had been over ten years. Instead, many people in Blenheim would see Mark navigating the town centre, often with his belongings in a shopping trolley. Being homeless has made him a recognisable, and sometimes divisive, figure locally. "People either love me or hate me," Mark told us, matter-of-factly.
While he has a certain charm and wit, Mark also faces ongoing trouble with the law, often for trespassing while trying to find somewhere safe to sleep. It’s a world away from his life a decade ago, which involved running businesses and being closer with his family. But personal setbacks and major life changes led Mark to where he is now.
Money troubles add to the pressure. Court fines deducted directly from his pension leave very little flexibility. Mark explains this sometimes pushes him into difficult situations, like taking food or finding shelter in empty buildings – old churches, halls, vacant properties – just to get out of the weather.
Mark came across ElderLink by chance while looking for shelter near our office. Our Executive Director, Aaron Goodwin, recognised Mark from a previous encounter and knew of his situation.
When Mark asked for support, we checked his eligibility based on our standard criteria: over 65 and needing help. As a charity, we stick to our purpose and don’t base our support on someone's personal history. Still, Mark's situation – no fixed address and a long conviction record – creates real challenges, especially, as Aaron notes, when it comes to finding housing.
To give Mark a chance to share his story directly, ElderLink helped him record a short video. We posted it online, and it quickly gained attention, getting over 1,000 views overnight. The following day, as Mark walked around the CBD, many community members approached him directly with supportive comments.
The video led to something unexpected: a potential employer saw it and contacted ElderLink to offer Mark an interview, his first in over ten years. Mark’s reaction was immediate and emotional. Overwhelmed, he broke down, worried about how he looked and smelled after living rough.
Getting Mark ready involved help from several people. ElderLink provided access to a shower and grooming kit. Local retailers who knew Mark offered kind advice and, along with ElderLink, helped put together a new set of clothes. Seeing a photo of himself prepared for the interview brought another wave of emotion, this time perhaps reflecting a renewed sense of self.
Mark went to the interview on Friday afternoon. He said afterwards he felt "like a million bucks." He later told Aaron he thought it went well and is now waiting hopefully for the outcome. (We're not naming the potential employer to respect their process).
Whatever the result of the interview, the experience itself seems to have made a difference. Aaron noticed a definite improvement in Mark's posture and general outlook. This positive change is notable, especially since earlier that same week, Mark had issues with the police for trespassing in an empty building while trying to stay warm.
Mark knows he's not "out of the dark yet," as he puts it. Finding stable, warm housing is still the biggest hurdle – ElderLink is actively seeking any leads for potential accommodation. But this week felt like a turning point. The man heading off to find a place for the night seemed different from the person who came to ElderLink just days before. It’s a reminder of what a second chance can mean.