“I was in such deep grief and fear, but BTH helped me find my way out. It changed everything.” Says Fiona
A Productive Caring Life
After 30 years working in health and IT, Fiona’s life took a difficult turn. Ongoing health issues, years spent caring for her mother with dementia, and using her superannuation to cover expenses left her financially and emotionally depleted. When her mother passed away, Fiona was overwhelmed by grief, anxiety, and the looming fear of homelessness.
Finding Support
Desperate for help, she contacted Better Together Housing after being referred by Centrelink and the Department of Housing. Attending her first gathering gave her something she hadn’t felt in a long time — hope. “It was so good meeting others in my situation,” she says. “For the first time, I didn’t feel alone.”
With BTH’s support, Fiona was referred to Coast2Bay Housing — and within weeks, she received a life-changing call. She’d been offered a brand-new, affordable unit. “It was a godsend,” Fiona says. “It’s beautiful, peaceful, and I finally feel safe.”
The Impact
- Fiona now has secure, long-term housing that’s safe and serene
- Her mental health and wellbeing have improved dramatically
- She has regained a sense of peace, safety, and independence
- Her little dog is by her side, completing her new home
Looking Ahead
For Fiona, the change has been transformative. “This home has given me my life back. It’s quiet, secure, and I finally feel safe,” she says. “It’s a miracle to me, a complete turnaround from where I was.”
More Powerful Stories
Fiona’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.
