Valentine's special: Garry and Claire are getting married

The couple, who will tie the knot this summer, reconnected via social media while Garry was living in one of our homelessness properties.

15 months later, they’re living together in their own council home and preparing for the big day.

“She’s the love of my life,” says Garry. “Everything has to be great. I just want her to walk down the aisle smiling because she’s happy I’m at the other end. I have my own front door key and now I want this lady to be my wife.”

Claire adds: “I’m excited and nervous. I’m marrying the love of my life.”

We helped Garry to rebuild his life after homelessness and drug addiction. We’ve seen him undergo a big transformation.

“I knew Claire’s family when I was young and we ended up getting together for a year. But one day her father said we couldn’t be together because I was a… naughty b*stard. Now, roughly 40 years later, I’m glad it didn’t work out then because it was supposed to work out now.”

Garry and Claire’s wedding has been paid for thanks to Porchlight’s involvement in a government trial to provide more financial support for people who’ve been homeless. Garry is one of the beneficiaries. It’s also helped him and Claire to furnish their new home.

“All my life I conditioned myself not to care about anyone… but now I do care. She’s my soulmate.”

It’s been a privilege to see Garry and Claire’s relationship blossom. Several Porchlight members of staff have been invited to the wedding and we’re all wishing them the best.