For most of her life, Lynn was the person building stability for others. After spending years creating a home for her family, she never expected she would one day experience homelessness herself.

“After 12 years of school and raising 5 beautiful children, I just never thought I’d find myself without a place to call home. It was terrifying,” she said.

When a relationship breakdown left Lynn without a home, she found herself facing a housing market she could no longer afford.

“I was applying for private rentals as well, but there was no way I could afford a private rental at the prices they’re at now,” she said.

With few options available, she moved between family members’ homes, a caravan park and a motel while searching for somewhere safe to live.

“I got very ill living at the caravan park, and my doctor said, ‘This won’t work for you. You need proper housing and a home.’”

Then came the call that marked the start of a new chapter. Lynn was offered a two-bedroom unit through Junction.

“I burst into tears when I got the call. I couldn’t believe it and I felt so much relief,” she said.

As she settled in with her greyhound, Ziggy, and her cat, Charlie, support from Junction and generous community members helped her turn an empty unit into a home. Donations of furniture, appliances and household essentials gave Lynn the foundation to start rebuilding.

“My housing manager turned up at my door with a smile on her face,” Lynn said. “I looked at her and she said, ‘Here you go, here’s a brand-new set of saucepans for you.’ She had sourced them for me because she knew I had nothing. I will never forget that kindness. That’s the moment my house began to feel like home.”

Nearly two years later, Lynn enjoys the comfort and routine that comes with knowing she and Ziggy have a place to come home to.

“The stability I have now gives me a safe space to heal and hope and focus on my future.”