Evan has battled through mental health struggles and housing instability since he was 20 years old. He moved around a lot and was never able to settle down.
“I found it difficult to find my own safe and secure home,” Evan explained.
During COVID lockdowns, with nowhere to live, Evan had to move in with his mum.
“I was sharing a bedroom with my mum. Thankfully I had my own single bed, but we were tripping over each other in her tiny little cottage, and I had no space for anything. It was hard to live in that environment,” Evan said.
After two years at his mum’s place, Evan moved into a refurbished motel room. He had more privacy there, but no real kitchen. He was grateful to have a place of his own, but it reminded him of his previous private rental experiences.
“My last rental before Mum’s was a nightmare, really. The place next door caught fire and nearly burnt down my place. I came back from my Christmas holidays to find out the fire brigade had been all through my house.”
“That was terrible. It was me doing it tough on my own.”
Despite experiencing housing and homelessness challenges, Evan worked hard to improve his mental health and make a full recovery.
Finally, after 10 years on the Victorian Housing waitlist, Evan was offered a property through Uniting.
“I was very happy when I heard the news. I’m very lucky I got this place.”
Now settled in his Uniting home, Evan sees the positive impact this newfound stability has had on his life.
“Straightaway, I found stability and I felt happier. I felt like my life was back on track. It’s been very good for my mental health. With my own space, I’m more in control of my life.”
“My unit is very private. Nice trees and a balcony. The unit is not too big or too small and it’s very well laid out,” said Evan.
“It’s nice to have support from Uniting and a bit of community around here. I’m starting to get to know people here, I feel like I’m starting to settle down.”
Evan has big goals and dreams for the future.
“I’d love to own my own home still. I’d love my own backyard for my dog. I’d love to have a family. I’m studying electronics to try and see if I can further a career. It’s something to work towards.”
