The following is from Blake. He wanted to express his story through his way and his words. Project Youth is proud that Blake felt empowered to do so.

"My name is Blake and I worked at P&H Fine Foods where I prepare and cook meat to be packaged. I got the job through Tash (Natasha). She really helped me out finding the job. I was jobless since I was 20 and I'm 24 now.

I was lucky that I didn't have the typical interview. I went in on a Monday, all dressed ready for an interview. They brought me in and chatted with me and asked when I could start. I started the next day on the afternoon shift and haven't changed since. It works best for me working the later shift because I have insomnia.

I really enjoy being able to get the job done and having that sense of accomplishment. Getting paid is also great, especially once you start saving money. The job has helped me because I battle a lot with depression and anxiety. I've been able to feel like I've actually achieved something and done something for the week.

I've learned two major things from the job and just from growing:

• Not all criticism is bad criticism or negative
• Even if you have a terrible day, you can always find an upside to the day or the day after. Push through the bad times so you can get back to the better times

Project Youth and Tash were a big influence with me getting this job. She supported me through every step. The team is great because they were able to help someone like me."

Blake was supported into full time work through Project Youth after he undertook our Job Readiness Program in 2021. Immediately, you could tell he was a hard worker and he communicated his strengths and interests to staff. His passion for smoking meats and showing his accomplishments to staff are what propelled him to his role now with P&H Fine Foods.

Blake is always willing to help out. Recently he allowed us to take some photos of him to use on our website. Check him out there as well as on our socials!