Several hundred of the unemployed (the homeless and people facing homelessness) participated in the “Back on Track” project, being part of the Equal Community Initiative, which is coming to its end. We want to present you their few impressions concerning the project. The authors’ names are changed. Today you can read Jadwiga’s text; next one – in a week. Information concerning the “Back on Track” project is available at www.wnp.org.pl

It was almost 9.30 a.m., when a friend of mine that I hadn’t seen for a long time rang the bell.
“I am very sorry but I am just coming out,” I said. “But if you want and have time, you can go with me to the PAB,” I added.
She raised her eyebrows. “To the pub? Now? I didn’t know you are in such a bad way,” she added, sighing heavily.
“I do not understand,” my eyebrows formed almost a question mark now, “ What do you mean?”
“I know that life is not easy, but why look for relief in alcohol straight away? How very unlike you!”
“What alcohol? What are you…,” then I realized the misunderstanding and burst out laughing.
“Yes, I’m going to the PAB, but I mean Professional Insertion Centre for the Unemployed (Polish: Punkt Aktywizacji Bezrobotnych) and not a place where you can drink beer.”
I laughed again and she joined me. However, she didn’t use the opportunity to go to the meeting. Maybe some other time…

And I, punctually at 10 a.m., took my seat next to Roma, opposite Basia and by aromatic coffee and cakes and, as usual, I was moved by the stories about the ups and downs of people in a situation similar to mine, or even more difficult one. They, like me, did not want to give up but to fight for a better life and their place in the society. During the second hour of our meeting we listened to the story of our Guest, watched a film, listened to recitation of poetry – we just fed our souls. And when I looked Anetka in her honest eyes while she was saying something with excitement, or at Staszek’s light and smiling face, I knew that I was at the right place. I was at home.