Voices from HAMSMaRT
Testimonials
These are the stories and reflections from the people involved with HAMSMaRT—our service users, providers, and partners. Together, we are sharing experiences that help build a community focused on health, dignity, and care for everyone.
"I was involved with KeepingSix from the beginning, so we kind of merged with HAMSMaRT over the years. Crossovers with McMaster projects helped me stay connected with HAMSMaRT; participating in fun outings such as Outpost, Fringe Festival, and Winterfest. It’s been a lot of years with community engagement and building an amazing harm reduction community. Meeting great people and engaging with coworkers and the community has been an interesting, sometimes heartbreaking, but always rewarding experience."
Jammy Pierre
“Dr. O’Shea became my saviour, my lifeline. He’s the best doctor in the world; he has the biggest heart. I got COVID, when that was going around, and I had to self-isolate for six weeks. He came with groceries for me, to my apartment, to check on me. He’s amazing. If you could tap into my head and see all the moments that I’ve had with him, where I’ve been not wanting to go on, just seeing him, it’s this subtle, I can’t put into words, but he’s amazing.”
Kimmie
“Come check it out and see how people’s lives are lifted from the experience. The doctors are great and just come in and check it out and see the other side of it. It’s stigmatized being a drug addict. You can see that it’s easily done. Your kid has a sports injury, and they can fall into it just as quickly."
Big Bob
“I’ve been with this agency almost three years now. There’s always something, and I’m always working. I love this agency. Everyone has a good heart."
David
"HAMSMaRT has walked with me through some of the toughest chapters of my life and supported me to stay strong each day. It's like a one-stop shop, accessible and welcoming for many people who need support. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be a peer support. This is my way of giving back to HAMSMaRT for the unconditional love, care, and support they have given me."
Melanie
"A friend brought me here, and I'm so grateful they did. The people truly care, they listen, support, and treat you with kindness and respect. HAMSMaRT is a safe space where I can rest, get my medication on time, meet new friends, and feel supported. They provide warm clothes, hot meals, and genuine care. If you've never been here, know that you will be supported. The people here truly make a difference."
Jessie
"HAMSMaRT saw my passion for cooking and gave me the opportunity to develop into Sous chef. Preparing and serving up to 200 nutritious hot meals has been one of my greatest accomplishments. Through meaningful employment, we provide warm meals across many streets of Hamilton. I feel accepted here, we uplift each other through mutual aid and support one another on our journeys. HAMSMaRT helped me get my life back on track, and I'm proud to be part of such an incredible team."
Aaron, K6 Sous Chef