Barb’s story: From facing housing insecurity to finding a job she loves

“My work in childcare isn’t just a job; it’s a stepping stone to qualifications that could open doors for me worldwide.” says Barb, who is excited about her future, thanks to the stability of having accessed housing after many years of housing insecurity. Now, she lives in a home that helps young women like herself, aged between 17 to 25 to transition to long-term stable housing, in Townsville, North Queensland.

Securing a job was not easy for Barb before moving to YWAM house. Now that she has found stability, she feels more focused to achieve her career goals. “I was living in a place where I found it harder to pay attention to my professional growth. Where I live now, I find myself being more driven to do everything really well at work and in life.” She enjoys her new job and the sense of purpose that comes with it. “I like working in childcare, it’s like finding the sweet spot between stressful and heartwarming, watching kids make friends fills my heart with joy.”

Barb has not just found a new job that she loves, she has also found new friends that she learns from, “I get encouraged to leave the house as people ask me to go out with them.” She adds, “Living in this house, I feel energised as I see others around me involved in activities that I want to join.”

Just like Barb, there are 350 people supported by a Homes for Homes grant. Homes for Homes granted $50,000 towards the YWAM house, as part of the first grant round in Queensland.

Looking ahead, Barb is planning to pursue further childcare studies and hold a diploma, that can be a ticket to working and exploring daycares around the world. “I used to dream about being financially stable with my own place. Now that it’s happening, I really want to travel around the world and check out all sorts of cool places!”

We have a goal to register 100 properties in Queensland with Homes for Homes by June 2025. The more homes that register, the more funds are raised to create social and affordable housing in Queensland. With 1 in 200 people experiencing homelessness in Queensland, there’s never been a more urgent need for safe and secure housing.

You can make a promise today to help the future of Queensland. Register your property here.