Junction’s Early Intervention and Prevention Worker Jodie Price, whose position is funded by the pilot program said it was about housing first – but also, support.

“It’s about working with real estate and property managers and others involved in housing and community services across the region to help people find private rental housing and importantly, sustain it,” Jodie explains.

“Through the program we were able to assist Stephen to gain and move into his new rental, but that was really the beginning.

“From there it was helping Stephen to fit out his home so he had the things he needed to cook, clean and live with both dignity and independence.”

Jodie also assisted Stephen to access much needed dental services to improve his health and wellbeing.

Since then, Stephen’s confidence and self-esteem has increased and he’s now sporting a beaming smile too.

“I work out in my gym at home and walk many kilometres every day which is really good for me,” Stephen said.

Stephen is a Volunteer at a local Community Centre delivering Emergency Relief to those in need and also volunteers with Relationships Australia mentoring young people experiencing addictions or challenges within their lives.

Staying Home in the Fleurieu is funded through The Wyatt Trust and the Fleurieu Community Foundation.

For Bruce, some recent maintenance upgrades at his Plympton property has meant more to him than home improvements. It’s been a fresh start.

“In 2019, my marriage broke down then I was made redundant – it was a very hard time,” the 53-year-old explains.

“I’m also getting new flooring in the next few weeks too, which will really complete things.”

Bruce said the housing upgrades to his property were just part of the support he had received from Junction over the past 18 months.

“When my marriage ended I was really worried I’d lose my house but Cassa (Housing Manager) was so supportive. She sat down with me and showed me where I could access concessions to help with electricity and utility payments to help manage things. Then with the housing work, Brett (Project Maintenance officer) has been so hands-on. They’ve both been very understanding.

“I’m so house-proud now.”

Giving back is simply a way of life for Junction volunteer Emily.

Emily, who has been volunteering at the Seaford Meadows Nature Play Group since late 2020, says community spirit ‘runs in the family’.

“My grandparents, who are now in their 80s, were council volunteers until recently. They helped with events, and with transport for the elderly – shopping and errands, things like that,” Emily said. “My parents were also always volunteering around my school, so I guess I got it from them.”

Despite already balancing university studies, a part time job and a university placement, Emily is constantly finding other ways to get involved.

Currently a third-year psychology student at Flinders University, Nature Play has since introduced her to a world of children’s psychology.

“I find it interesting how much playing in nature can help children develop mentally – whether that be resilience, fine motor skills or just sparking their imagination,” she said. “When I was younger, I played on playgrounds with bark chips – but these days, it’s all rubber flooring. Nature Play teaches them it’s ok to play with sticks and dirt.”

Emily is also undertaking a placement at Military and Emergency Services Health Australia (MESHA) – a research institute focusing on the mental health and wellbeing of current and former military members, emergency service personnel and their families.

“I’m part of a research project focused on treatments and interventions for personnel with PTSD, and whether these treatments help improve their ability to leave the house, go to the shops, pick up their kids from school etc.” she said. “It’s a great opportunity to learn as much as I can – and then to apply it to other situations too.”

She hopes to eventually use what she’s learned to create impact in lives and communities.

“I love doing whatever I can to improve the lives of others, even if it’s just a small part,” she said. “It’s about being involved in something bigger.”