Everyone Deserves a Safe Place to Call Home

After leaving an abusive relationship, Kelly* came to Coast Shelter for safety and support. With help, she got sober, found stable housing and reconnected with her daughter. Today she’s working part-time and moving toward full-time custody - made possible by community support.

After months living in a tent in his parents’ backyard, Tom* came to Coast Shelter feeling isolated and unsure how to ask for help. With tailored support, he started training and work, rebuilt family connections and now feels confident seeking help - thanks to community support.

Ellis* arrived with no identification, no income, and multiple health diagnoses. Our team coordinated care, connected Ellis with disability support, and helped with school enrolment and healthcare. Ellis left the refuge in supported independent living, with confidence and a renewed sense of independence.

Eugenie* arrived at refuge after escaping ten years of domestic violence. During intake she said again and again that she didn't deserve support. With consistent care, she accessed financial assistance, rebuilt her confidence, and secured transitional housing. Today she speaks of rediscovering who she is.

Ben* came to Coast Shelter through a short-term program and engaged with support straight away. A formal diagnosis opened the door to tailored disability support, and he moved into private rental housing. Ben is maintaining his tenancy and building a future with real opportunity ahead.

Dan* came to Coast Shelter after a mental health crisis cost him his housing and contact with his children. Through our Men's Program he worked with a psychologist and a social worker, and gradually returned to work. Dan now has long-term housing and a co-parenting relationship with his kids.

Stacey* was 32 weeks pregnant, homeless long-term, and caring for her older child while navigating domestic violence. Our DVRE and child and youth case workers helped her access crisis funding, secure stable housing, and enrol her child in school. Her family now has a safe home.

Joseph* came to the Community Centre for meals and a shower. Quiet at first, he eventually shared that he'd been living in his van. When an accident left it unroadworthy, our team secured emergency accommodation, then long-term housing through Homes NSW. Small acts, life-changing outcome.