Before he became homeless himself, Tēwa says he used to judge people doing it tough. Now, he says, he takes it all back.
After losing his wife to COVID-19, Tēwa’s life changed in an instant. The home they once shared was sold, and he found himself sleeping in his car.
“I hadn’t had a shower in four days. As soon as I saw the Orange Sky van, I dived in. Having clean clothes and a shower - man, it changes everything.”
That moment became a turning point. “You feel fresh,” he says. “It became psychological - just feeling clean made all the difference.”
Today, with stable housing and access to a shower and laundry, Tēwa still returns to shift. He sits alongside friends and tūao (volunteers), lending a hand, offering a kōrero, and being a steady presence.
Tēwa’s story reminds us that healing is not a straight line. It’s circular, communal, and built on aroha (love). The same community that lifted him now benefits from his warmth and his care.
EVERYONE NEEDS CONNECTION
We're on a mission to support more of the 112,000* people experiencing homelessness and hardship across Aotearoa with free laundry, warm showers and genuine conversation. And we need your help.
Providing free mobile laundry and showers is only one part of the Orange Sky service. Our teams of volunteers also provide a place for friends to connect with their community.
You can help ensure an orange chair is always there to support our friends doing it tough. Donate today.
*NZ Census 2023
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