The gift of a new beginning

Finding employment can be a challenge at the best of times, but it is incredibly difficult for those with past criminal convictions. Many individuals want a second chance at life, but often their past can keep them from being able to move forward in life.

One of our Acts 435 partners works closely with individuals coming out of the prison system, offering them a chance to start afresh and build a more positive future.

This includes individuals like Callum* who during his time in prison expressed a desire to open his own gardening business. Through the help of this partner charity Callum was able to attend various courses on gardening and business training.

"After being released from prison, I knew I wanted to build something positive with my life. While I was inside, I put everything I had into completing as many gardening and landscaping courses as possible, hoping that one day I would get the chance to turn that knowledge into a small business of my own.”

On completing his prison sentence Callum needed to purchase some gardening tools but he didn’t have the financial means to do so. However with the help of Acts 435, the partner charity was able to place a request for tools on the Acts 435 website. Amazingly through the generosity of donors Callum received enough funds to purchase a hedge trimmer, tree lopper, edging tool and a tiller.

This seemingly small donation of a few gardening tools may not seem like much, but to Callum they symbolised, “the foundation of a new beginning;” and now he has an opportunity to establish his own business.

“[The tools] mean I can take on jobs, do them properly and start building a reputation I can be proud of. I know there is still a long way to go, but your belief in me means more than I can put into words. You have helped give me the chance to rebuild my life and I will not waste it."

*name changed