Teashanna’s Story, from homeless to feeding the community
Teashanna’s Story. One of our ex-clients also known as Teash, had lived in London for most of her life. Her mum lived in Jamaica and sadly her relationship with her dad was at times turbulent. Teash said: “I was pushed from pillar to post and even lived with my dad’s ex-wife for a year. I would say I was sofa-surfing but it was more a case of sleeping where you could find room in a very busy house.”
“I decided to move out and was pleased to be able to stay in various spare rooms of friends between 2019 and 2020. I knew I couldn’t keep this up and approached no less than 3 London Councils to ask for help with housing. All said that I was not a priority as I did not have children etc.”
Teash made contact with a friend’s aunt who lives in Gainsborough, who was able to put Teash up for a short while. However, she knew that this too was not a long-term solution and remained desperate for independence. Her friend’s aunt, who had come across LEAP, suggested Teash contact us. She has now been living with us for 4 months in a shared house with two other girls.
Teashanna’s Job
“I have a job at Feeding Gainsborough which I really enjoy. Bit scary though as they have asked me to be the manager which means I am responsible for menu-writing every day. The organisation gets ingredients from local supermarkets, which often include things that do not sell so well, such as mangoes and avocados. While I was told most clients aren’t so fond of these two, I am adamant to create dishes that people will like which include mangoes and avocados. We have even been talking about introducing a weekly ‘foods from around the world’ menu.”
Teash’s Housing Officer said: “Though I see it so often with our residents, it continues to amaze me how finally feeling settled in accommodation with a little extra support can be the catalyst for so much positive change and the key to achieving someone’s fullest potential.”
When I asked what she would like to do next, Teash mentioned getting her drivers licence. “In London you can just jump on a bus or Tube anywhere, but Lincolnshire is a very different place. I would like to explore more of it.”
It is evident that Teash enjoys getting involved with community activities. As I mentioned the provisional plans for a Summer Fair in celebration of the Queen’s Jubilee, Teash said: “I love that!” so hopefully we might see Feeding Gainsborough at the fair?
How can you help?
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