Patricia takes care of the homeless in Hoorn with ‘treasure chest on wheels’

At the car park of Zwaluwen ’30, people always gather in the morning. This is where the homeless and the homeless come together to participate in the daytime activities of care organization Reakt. Patricia gives them a cup of coffee. In the half-open container they find shelter from wind and weather as far as possible.

“I do this for the boys on the street. It is quite a group. Not everyone is assured of a place to sleep at the Salvation Army or a temporary place with friends or family. Several sleep outside in a tent, they have no one to rely on to fall back.”

Patricia, who was once an addict herself, came back from a deep valley about seven years ago. “I was still working at the time, but I was also drinking. I didn’t want to face my problems then.” That was no longer possible. There came a turning point where she found her way back on her own. “I work for our Lord. From my faith in God, I try to serve others. That is the most beautiful thing there is. I take the day as it comes. Whoever comes my way, I help.”

What does she think that does to the boys on the street? “A lot. Especially the guys who just hit the street and have lost hope. I find them crying somewhere, completely broken. And if you can offer a cup of coffee, that gives hope.”

Her mother gave her a cargo bike. “In the morning I get up, go to the store and replenish the things. I also receive many gifts from people I meet along the way.” She knows the group like no other. By having a chat and offering food or drink, they can get back to it. “And I show them the way to the church, the Salvation Army if they want night shelter or other people who can help them.”

With the nights approaching freezing point, another difficult time awaits. “I therefore work together a lot. We are five women that I can rely on.” If someone is through, he or she can warm up at someone’s house. “I also take them to people, there is now someone who has also opened her house for the homeless. When it is very cold or raining, we occasionally sit there. Then we make sure there is food and drink, they can shower, change clothes. And that’s how we try to make it easier for the boys together.”