What happened to Daniel?

Daniel has been struggling to sustain employment since his diagnosis of HIV in 2007. The diagnosis hit him hard, and while HIV is no longer a death sentence, public and workplace stigmatisation and discrimination still remains. As a result, employment has constantly been a problem, causing Daniel to only be able to work ad-hoc jobs. 

Social isolation and rejection, coupled with his poor physical health has caused Daniel to become more than demoralised on many fronts. In 2017, desperate to land a job placement, he made the choice not to disclose his health status. This resulted in a pending court case for non-disclosure of his health condition, with a potential outcome of Daniel needing to serve a prison sentence.

How can you help?

Ray of Hope is raising $1,950 ($650 x 3 months) to support Daniel’s subsistence needs while he is unable to seek employment due to his pending Court case in June 2023.

The funds will reduce his distress from finding a way to make ends meet, while worrying about the outcome of the Court hearing. It would also go a long way in reducing his sense of isolation. Help Daniel to stay strong with the belief that in spite of his past mistakes, there will be a way to build his life after this setback. 

More about Daniel / Appeal from him:

Daniel has been homeless for 6 years. He has not enjoyed stable shelter since 2017, cycling through a homeless shelter, parks and public spaces. Currently, he is putting up at a friend’s 1-room rental flat, but remains precariously housed, lonely and without a social support network.

Compounding his sense of rejection from the workplace, Daniel has limited to no family support. Apart from his biological mother, with whom he remains close, his family is no longer in contact with him. 

“I long to be loved and accepted. I, too, want to lead a life without sickness”, Daniel told the caseworkers. 

Despite his health challenges, Daniel has been resourceful in setting up a small home-based business selling baked goods. He is determined to stay positive and hopes to resume his baking orders. Daniel has sought assistance from various NGOs and with their support and encouragement, he remains hopeful about the future.

*Daniel is receiving social assistance.