#elderhousing

A Lost Dream

Providing hope and resilience is the foundation of our Not-for-profit work at People Purpose Place. This story from DW is compelling,

This house, on the right-hand side, is where our house was. This same tree, actually, the same tree, that has always been here. And that big gum tree up the back was full of fruit bats. They would come and screech all night and I was very happy. And life was pretty good. It was pretty good. It happens suddenly. My partner said to me one day, we don’t have any money left. And, um, it’s sort of too hard to kind of even comprehend really. He kept saying, “Don’t worry about money, don’t worry about money. Everything is under control. You keep doing your thing.” But then, this day he said – it was a Saturday, and he said, we don’t have any money left. The removalists came and took everything. Homelessness was not even on my radar. I had never, ever considered that I would be homeless. Never.

The Great Australian Dream

For many years, owning a house was known as the Great Australian Dream. The belief was that home ownership would lead to a better life. A home represents more than just bricks and mortar. More than a roof over your head. It is a shelter. A safe place to live. Giving us security and a sense of belonging.

Australia was called the lucky country — a land of hope and opportunity. The myth was that you could achieve anything if you worked hard enough. The aim was, for many, to own a quarter-acre block in the suburbs with a clothesline out the back. Housing developments were everywhere. New suburbs were sprawling and the property market was booming. We’re selling! For a while, the future looked rosy. Politics and economics change everything. As time passed, the great Australian dream has slowly eroded. And for many people, that dream has been shattered.

The need for long-form storytelling. Thankfully, Deutsche Welle has been inspired to pick up this story.

The Misconceptions of Homelessness

I’m going a bit ranty now, but it’s absolutely crazy, vile, and reprehensible how our society treats homelessness. There’s this thing in the current neo-liberal agenda of wanting everyone to think that people are homeless because it’s their own fault. Technically homeless means, I don’t have a home. That can happen to anybody. Anyone could end up homeless in two weeks. Everyone who looks down on homeless people thinks: these homeless people have done something wrong, or they deserve it, or they need to work hard, or they shouldn’t be on drugs or whatever, not realizing that they could be the next homeless person. I didn’t think I could end up homeless and I did. I was homeless for over 10 years.

From Stability to Uncertainty

I got sacked from my job and had a relationship fall apart on the same day. Two weeks later, because I couldn’t afford to pay the rent, I also lost my house. So I went through the lost partner, lost house, and lost job, which are 3 of the 5 most stressful things you can have in your life. All happened at once. So from that, I ended up on the street. I had a generic white van pulled up to a park and just slept in the back. I slept in my car in one particular park for almost a year.

Stories of Resilience

I want to introduce Claire G. Coleman. I’ve heard Claire speak with moving insight about her experiences of being homeless. Claire’s novel, Terra Nullius, won the Norma K. Hemming Award, a science fiction award named for Australia’s first significant female science fiction writer. It’s a powerful story of colonial dispossession, oppression, and resistance to the invader settlers.

The Hidden Crisis

Homelessness is often seen as a man’s issue. What comes to mind is a man sleeping rough on a park bench. You don’t tend to think about someone’s daughter, mother, or grandmother.

As new data emerges, 405,000 women over 50 have been identified as homeless or on the brink of homelessness in Australia. These women are all over the country, and all over the world. It is a crisis on our doorstep. It’s always been a struggle for women to have equality in Australia. Although there has been some progress, the fight for equality in the so-called ‘lucky country’ continues to this day. Women may have raised children, had a reduced earning capacity, cared for aging parents, put careers on hold and had little or no superannuation. Now, as they age, and with no prospect of getting back into the workforce, they find themselves as part of the growing and shameful statistic of homelessness. They are often hidden, out of sight, out of mind.

Editor Note: Discussions with Housing Older Womens movement have found as one option we have a process that offers some hope and resilience for this cohort.

Creating Solutions

One great organisation working in this space is Housing All Australians

As governments and support services struggle to address the homelessness crisis, organizations and individuals work tirelessly to find solutions. One such initiative is the Housing All Australians project. This project aims to utilize empty buildings and convert them into short-term accommodation for those in need. While these pop-up shelters are not a long-term solution, they provide temporary relief and support for homeless individuals. However, it is clear that more needs to be done. There is a pressing need for affordable and public housing to be available.

Editor Note: Hope and resilience are exactly the words from our workshops that our attendees report after finding a possible path to their enduring home.

Rebuilding Lives

It is not just about providing a roof over someone’s head. It is about rebuilding lives, restoring hope, and giving individuals a sense of security. Transitional housing programs and organizations like Women’s Housing are crucial in helping women find stability and regain their independence. These programs provide a place to live and offer support, resources, and a sense of community to those who have experienced homelessness.

Stories of Hope

Amidst the challenges and hardships, there are stories of hope and resilience. Individuals who have overcome adversity have found a sense of home, whether in a van, a bus, or a small apartment. These stories serve as a reminder that home and belonging can be found in unexpected places. They remind us of the human spirit’s strength and community’s power.

A Call to Action

Homelessness is a complex issue that requires a collective effort to address. Acknowledging the problem is not enough; we must take action. Governments, organizations, and individuals all have a role in creating sustainable solutions and supporting those in need. Together, we can build a society that values and prioritizes the well-being and security of all its members.

A New Dream

As the great Australian dream of home ownership fades for many, it is time to envision a new dream. One where hope and resilience walk hand in hand with some workable solutions. A dream that encompasses affordable housing, social support, and a sense of belonging for all. It is time to come together and work towards a future where homelessness is no longer a reality for anyone. Home is where we find safety, comfort, and a place to belong. Let us strive to make this a reality for all.

I now have no fear for my future knowing what I now know!

Jenny Sader

Ambassador

Continuing the Journey

These stories are just a glimpse into the reality of homelessness. They remind us of the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding. As we reflect on these stories, let us remember that homelessness can happen to anyone, and it is our collective responsibility to address this issue and create a more inclusive and compassionate society. Together, we can make a difference. Our goal is to build up hope and resilience within our community.

People Purpose Place home

In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the state of housing in Australia. Many people feel that there are fundamental problems that need to be addressed. Whether it’s the unaffordability of housing, the lack of suitable homes for individuals and families, or the isolation and loneliness that our current housing designs create, it is clear that something needs to change. Additionally, the displacement of our elders into aged care institutions and other inadequate solutions is a cause for concern.

It is important to acknowledge that the existing housing system does work for some and has contributed to wealth creation within Australia. However, it is equally important to recognize that our society has evolved, and it is time for our housing to catch up. We need to explore new possibilities and challenge the status quo.

The Need for Innovation

When we think about cars and transportation, we have seen significant advancements. We have electric cars as an alternative to traditional fuel-powered vehicles, providing a more sustainable and cost-effective option for those who are tired of rising fuel prices. However, when it comes to housing, we lack similar examples of innovation.

At People Purpose Place, we are committed to creating housing options that go beyond the traditional models. We believe in providing alternatives for those who are looking for something different, something that not only addresses their housing needs but also creates a true home. We understand that a home is more than just a physical structure; it is a place where individuals can thrive and build connections.

Redefining the Issue

It is essential to reframe the housing crisis as a homing problem. This perspective shift allows us to focus on the individual needs of each person while also building a sense of community at the household level. By prioritizing both individuality and togetherness, we can create housing solutions that truly meet the diverse needs of our society.

If you resonate with this perspective, we invite you to start your journey towards living your best life. We believe that by reimagining housing and fostering a sense of belonging, we can address the housing challenges we face today.

Affordability and Accessibility

One of the primary concerns surrounding housing in Australia is affordability. Many individuals and families find it increasingly difficult to afford a home of their own. This issue has led to a generation of people who feel financially trapped and unable to progress in life.

At People Purpose Place, we are committed to creating housing options that are not only affordable but also accessible to all. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to have a place they can call home. By designing innovative and cost-effective solutions, we aim to break down the barriers that prevent many from achieving homeownership.

Designing Homes for Modern Living

In addition to affordability, it is crucial to address the suitability of housing in Australia. Many existing homes do not meet the needs and lifestyles of the people living in them. As our society evolves, so should our housing designs. We need to create homes that are adaptable, sustainable, and promote well-being.

At People Purpose Place, we prioritize understanding the diverse needs of individuals and families. Our homes are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing residents to customize their living spaces to suit their specific preferences and requirements. We also incorporate sustainable features to reduce environmental impact and promote a healthy lifestyle.

Housing into our Twilight

Furthermore, it is essential to address the issue of aging in our communities. Many elders are forced into aged care institutions due to a lack of suitable housing options. This separation from their communities can lead to feelings of isolation and a decline in overall well-being.

At People Purpose Place, we recognize the importance of intergenerational connections. We aim to create communities where people of all ages can live together, supporting and learning from one another. By providing housing options that cater to the needs of older adults, we can promote aging in place and create a sense of belonging for everyone. This long term Harvard Study has found that the impacts for your wellbeing can be profound.

The Path Forward

It is clear that the housing issue in Australia is multifaceted and requires a holistic approach. By redefining the problem as a homing problem, we can focus on solutions that prioritize the individual and foster community connections. At People Purpose Place, we are dedicated to creating innovative and inclusive housing options that address the needs of our evolving society.

If you resonate with our vision and are looking for something more than just a house, we invite you to join us on this journey. Together, we can create a future where housing is not only affordable and accessible but also a place where individuals can truly thrive and live their best lives.

People Purpose Place home

Introduction

When we first met with Jenny there was some quiet inner strength that has been forged over a lifetime of experience and her one housing crisis.  As a long term youth and community worker in regional Queensland Jenny has maintained her family and raised some wonderful kids in spite of some pretty significant personal challenges.  This work has included some of our most critical skills of child care, youth engagement and elder support.

Family tragedy and threat

Jenny started out raising her family in regional Victoria when a tragedy struck with the loss of her husband and the children’s father.  For a while Jenny persisted to try and run the mixed purpose farm as it was all they knew.  There was some support for sure, but the larger threat still existed and it was not long before they had to give up their idyllic location and move.  It is no small issue to leave a family home.

Destination Queensland

Having family in North Queensland Jenny brought her young family north into regional Queensland to rebuild a life here.  It was an unknown adventure driven by some desperation.

After getting established in Herberton, Jenny aspired to the great Australian Dream in this small community.  After some years that battle was lost again at the hands of the finance institutions. Despite decades of working for and with the most vulnerable in our community Jenny again found herself without a home.

Dark Clouds Brewing

The most recent home was here in the idyllic Yungaburra.  The Lakeside Caravan Park and motor inn on the shores of lake Tinaroo.

Recently this solution was also thrown into chaos with the owner considering looking for a long term commercial lease for the park management. This was a return for Jenny of her one housing crisis. For the owner this is their property but for Jenny it was her home.

It eventuated that the owner evicted Jenny and her collection of long term residents with this new business model in mind.  It is interesting that even with this pain and disruption the existing owner has still not been able to deliver their business strategy some years after the eviction and dismantling of their homes.

A home designed for Jenny to thrive

Into her later years Jenny has now resorted to a share house arrangement.  While this is a form of shelter there are limitations to this type of solution.  In the short term all these residents are still at the whim of a landlord. At best they can expect a 6-12 months lease for security.  Jenny is thankful for what but is willing to do the necessary work to take back control for her housing. This is a major journey personally and then with a like minded group to get away from this housing uncertainty.  It has been amazing to meet such people and understand the full depth of their housing journey. Together we are motivated to deliver a great home for a lady that undoubtedly deserves a safe, secure and long term home on her terms.

If you are inspired, the unedited longer form interview (1 hour) with Jenny is available on our YouTube channel here.

People Purpose Place home