Left in the care of a foster family with three other children, Paul along with his biological sister struggled with homelessness from the young age of 12.

Against the odds, Paul completed year 11, however becoming increasingly disengaged with school he dropped out before his final year. With very low motivation to seek employment, he was referred to Hope Street by the local Reconnect program. With some hesitation about living alone for the first time, Paul moved into one of Hope Street’s units.

Struggling to adjust, he experienced loneliness and anxiety, sleeping in the lounge room for the first two weeks. His case manager worked intensively with him to assist in his transition to independent living. While at Hope Street, Paul maintained contact with his foster family, seeing them regularly both at their home and his unit.

While living in the unit, Paul was supported to secure an apprenticeship as a butcher in the local area. He began making connections to his community and was taken to and from work each day by one of his new colleagues.

After four months in the unit, Paul returned home to his foster family. Independently, he now commutes on public transport to work and TAFE each day and his case worker notes his improved attitude towards the value of work and an appreciation for his income.