Sam’s* Story

I was 19 when I moved into Oasis Crisis Accommodation. I had no support, no income and had been without a bed for months. I had ongoing, undiagnosed mental health issues and had moved interstate to escape the regular beatings I had received from my alcoholic father since I was 10.

I was anxious, depressed and angry.

I really struggled with the routine and structure at Oasis, but I also had goals that I wanted to achieve. Number one on my list – finding out what was wrong with my head, then get a job in hospitality and move into my own place.

I found support through regular counselling sessions, felt confident enough to submit my resume to a couple of local cafes and was hired as a barista within a few weeks. It was all coming together and I was feeling positive about the future.