Tarina first met staff from YFS when she was 17 years old and looking for a safe, secure home. YFS were able to help her find accommodation in Woodridge – and despite seeing a lot of changes in subsequent years, Tarina continues to cherish her connection to Logan.
“There’s a lot more houses, shops, a lot more people. But my first house, it’s still there.”
After some very difficult periods, Tarina started sleeping in a local park, and gradually built friendships with other people living there.
“You get used to having people around 24/7. You’re never alone.”
Tarina briefly moved into a social housing unit in Camp Hill, but, cut off from her connections in Logan and without ongoing support, it wasn’t the right fit.
“Being surrounded by four walls, after being out in the open for so long, wasn’t good. When I was in trouble, I was alone.”
“I felt a lot of shame when I left [the Camp Hill unit].”
Tarina moved back to Logan and continued sleeping rough. She knew it was impacting on her health but couldn’t find a suitable alternative.
During this period, Tarina began getting to know YFS Outreach staff, who visited the park regularly, supporting residents.
“[One of the YFS staff], he made a lot of impact – he always treated me right, with respect. Before I met him, I didn’t trust anyone.”
“YFS were persistent. They cared and didn’t try to push me out [of the park] or force me into anything.”
Over time, with the support of YFS workers, Tarina began building a plan for her health and security. Keen to continue living in Logan, she applied for housing with the Slacks Creek Community Housing Initiative, and her application was successful.
Tarina has now been living in her new home for several months and is working on healing and building solid foundations for her future. It’s early days, but she has noticed several positives, like better sleep and some improvements in her mental health.
For Tarina, knowing she would have onsite support from YFS and not be alone in her new tenancy was vital to making the transition.
“YFS are like family. They’re a big support to me. They care.”
One day, Tarina would like to use her lived experience to reach out to others – the same way YFS did to her.
“People know me around here [in Logan]. One day I want to work with others, help them see they aren’t missing out, if they get help.”
