Jessica (name changed) had accessed Lou’s Place over several years for drop-in support, practical assistance and housing advice. She had experienced prolonged rough sleeping, significant mental health challenges, alcohol and drug use, as well as a high level of distrust of services. This made sustained engagement difficult.
Through our Stability First Program, caseworkers worked at Jessica’s pace, gradually building trust while supporting her housing application, gathering documentation, advocating for refuge and temporary accommodation, assisting with personal identification and essential items, and coordinating with other services. She was also referred to a multi-agency initiative that helped escalate the urgency of her housing need.
Through sustained advocacy, Jessica received an urgent social housing allocation. She has now accepted a secure long-term home in her preferred location, with wraparound supports in place. Her outcome demonstrates the value of persistent, relationship-based support for women whose complex needs and previous experiences can make mainstream systems difficult to navigate.