“I wish other women knew that Better Together Housing exists and that it exists for them. It is a safe place where you don’t need to feel shame. You will be listened to, supported, and guided. I’d rave about BTH to anyone in my position and I’d urge them to make contact as soon as possible.” Says Monique.
A Life Spent Caring
At 66, Monique had spent her life caring for others, raising three children, balancing decades of unpaid family work with low-paid roles in customer service and care. Like many women of her generation, she reached later life without the financial security of superannuation.
From Instability to Community
In 2024, after contracting COVID, Monique became too unwell to keep working. She gave up her job, left an unaffordable Brisbane rental, and moved to Maryborough to stay with family.
While it gave her a chance to recover her health, she knew it wasn’t a long-term solution.
Having heard of Better Together Housing, she joined and attended gatherings in Brisbane, then later a series in Nambour. For the first time, she felt surrounded by women who truly understood.
“We all had different stories, but we were in the same boat, trying to find a way out of housing insecurity.”
The Impact
- Monique has secured safe, stable housing with another BTH member
- She gained confidence and courage to explore shared living arrangements
- Shame and isolation were replaced with understanding, support, and hope
- She now lives in a peaceful, respectful home with companionship and trust
Looking Ahead
Monique hopes to continue living in secure housing where mutual respect and harmony are the foundation of her home. After years of instability, she is embracing a future of stability, safety, and connection.
More Powerful Stories
Monique’s story was originally published as part of our ‘Storytelling and Impact Report’ along with 14 other women, to learn more about their stories and the broader impact of Better Together you can read the rest of the report here.
