I was 30 years old when everything came crashing down. ​It was the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. My family’s income had dropped drastically. My mum lost her job, and my sister’s working hours were cut. I felt the pressure to keep things going. ​

I was struggling with my mental health which made it hard to keep a stable job and relationships. I had to borrow money for everyday living. As the debts mounted, so did conflicts with my family. I was eventually forced out by my family and became homeless. All alone and completely overwhelmed, my life was spiraling out of control. I began to experience suicidal thoughts.

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“There were days I woke up, wishing I hadn’t.”

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When I was referred to the MWS Family Service Centre in my neighbourhood, I was at a breaking point, carrying deep shame, fear and a sense of hopelessness.  Daphne, my social worker, supported me in getting my mental health back while helping me to secure housing and get a job.

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“It was the first time I felt stable since COVID-19 began.“

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I now have a roof over my head and am working towards getting a stable job. Supported by a community that understands my adversity, I am taking small steps, growing in confidence and hope, little by little. ​