“It will mean I can wake up in the morning and have peace, go to sleep at night - peace - being able to be in charge of my own life, knowing the walls that surround me are my walls - the roof over my head is something I’ve earnt - self-respect”
Kamini, a single mother in her 50s, embarked on her journey with Head Start Homes in 2021. Before that, she endured ongoing housing insecurity which included having to flee and live in a homeless refuge.
"Since 1998, I've lived in 23 different places. My son moved 16 of those times. He's had to go to 10 different schools and re-establish those relationships every single time. I found it really hard to respect myself in that environment, surrounded by a lot of dysfunction, a lot of chaos," Kamini shared.
In 2007, Kamini experienced a particularly tough time when she was evicted just before Christmas, leaving her uncertain about where she and her son would live. This experience was a turning point for her, motivating her to make significant changes in her life.
Despite these hardships, Kamini was determined to create a better future for herself and her son. When she found out she was going to be a grandmother, it was a turning point, leading her to work with Head Start Homes.
"I started working with Head Start Homes. Before that, I had thought I'm just filling in time until I die," Kamini explained.
She worked hard, following a savings plan and striving to find full-time work.
"I've had to work really, really hard. You know, I had to do my savings plan every month and have that discipline," Said Kamini.
Kamini’s dedication paid off, and in April 2024, her property in Paramatta settled, making her a homeowner for the very first time.
Kamini's journey with Head Start Homes is a story of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of support.
“Thank you so much Head Start Homes. Thank you for everything that you’ve done and, you know, from my family generations to come,”
Her story serves as an inspiration to all who face similar challenges and a testament to the transformative impact of our Empowerment Products and Services.
Thank you, Kamini - we are proud to have played a part in your journey as we strive towards our vision of a safe and stable home for everyone with fair and practical pathways to home ownership.
Kamini's journey is beautifully captured in a short film produced by Hugh Fenton at Enlightening Films, which we had the honour of previewing at our 7th Annual General Meeting in 2024. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of our Empowerment Services.
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