OUR STORY
People often ask
how People Helping People started...
This is truly a story of
what one little dog can do.
Finding our place
When we first arrived in this community, we had nothing. Like many in CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) communities, we came without a sense of identity, connection, or support. We had no car, no money, and no understanding of how to access even the most basic needs.
We felt invisible, unsure, overwhelmed, and alone.
The connection that changed everything
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A moment of kindness
Along the way, we experienced a simple act of kindness that changed everything.
A neighbour, Carol, brought us a food package. In that moment, her generosity meant more than words can express. It reminded us what it felt like to be seen and supported and it inspired us to give back.
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Then there was Piper.
Curious, determined, and full of spirit, Piper began exploring our neighbourhood. She would visit neighbours, gently “knocking” on their doors with her nose, especially checking in on elderly residents like Nola, Faye, and Ron.
What we were too afraid to do, Piper did naturally.
She brought people together.
Children, families, and neighbours from all walks of life were drawn to her warmth and joy. Through her, conversations started, trust grew, and connections formed. Piper crossed all barriers: culture, language, age, and circumstance without hesitation.
And through her, we slowly found our place in the community.
From small acts to something bigger
Not long after, we found an old, discarded trolley.
It became our way of reaching others.
With what little we had, we started sharing a pot of soup, a meal, whatever we could.
Through Piper’s connections, we realised we were not alone. Others in our community were also struggling with food insecurity, isolation, and hardship.
So we began helping each other.
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Building
a community
When COVID hit, these small acts became essential. While support systems existed, many in our elderly, disabled, and CALD communities found them difficult to access.
Meals were shared. Supplies were passed along. Neighbours supported neighbours. What began as survival became something stronger: a connected, caring community built on trust and compassion.
So the community stepped in.
Who we are today?
People Helping People is not built on systems or structures, it is built on people.
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On relationships.
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On kindness.
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On showing up for one another when it matters most.
Because helping one person may not change the whole world but it can change the world for that one person.
And it all started with one little dog.
— Judy Potter, Founding Director
Hearts of Bentley
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