Eindhoven 25-08-2025
Bjorn came back to the Netherlands after a difficult period in South America, propertyless and with his family still abroad. Through a friend, he came to the central walk-in of Springplank, where his road to recovery began.
Step by step, Bjorn found a temporary place to sleep, first at ’t Eindje, then at the Vestdijk and finally at Fuutlaan. Despite physical complaints that limited his mobility, he remained determined. Thanks to help from the Outreach Team, he was able to apply for identification through the Catharina Church, which opened doors to further support.
Bjorn: “I get full confidence from my employer. That gives me a nice feeling after years of uncertainty.”
With a permanent place at Grebe Avenue, Bjorn received counselling in multiple areas of life. Benefits were applied for and he received medical help through the street doctor. Soon Bjorn was offered a pathway from the municipality at Springplank and a pathway supervisor was paired up. To this day, his counsellor is still involved in getting his life even further on track and supports him in finding his own home, finances and sustainable work.
Bjorn started applying for jobs on his own, but noticed he needed support. Together with his supervisors, he decided to first do day jobs to regain his rhythm. Although he was sceptical about this at first, he saw it as a necessary step towards paid work. His commitment and reliability stood out, and a suitable job was actively sought. Bjorn indicated that he would like to work in the transport sector. Through Springplank, he came into contact with Aarts Transport/Pure Transport, where he was able to start work immediately after a successful trial day. Since April 2025, he has been working there full-time as a courier.
His motivation? Working towards a stable future, saving for family reunification and a home of his own. Bjorn appreciates the freedom, confidence and independence he experiences in his work. He finally feels seen and appreciated again.
Despite the successes, Bjorn is still in the middle of trajectory. He has just taken the first steps. Like a room of his own, application for urgent housing has been done. We wish Bjorn all the best.
His advice to others is clear:
“Take help, but don't forget your own responsibility. Springplank shows you the way to the door, but you have to open it yourself. And so a new door to your final goal opens again and again.”
