CASE STUDY Finding a safe space at Amelie House When Sophie* fled a violent home in 2022 with her three children, she had no clear plan, only the hope of keeping them safe.
“Being here is a chance to start over,” she said. “I want other families to know help is out there and that the community cares.” Sophie’s story reflects the growing challenges faced by Tasmanians experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity. More than 5,000 people remain on the social housing waitlist, nearly 4,000 of whom are homeless or in temporary accommodation. One in 86 Tasmanians is currently seeking assistance from homelessness services, the highest rate in Australia. “Sophie’s experience is heartbreaking but far from unique,” St Vincent de Paul Society State President Corey McGrath said. “The St Vincent de Paul Society is doing everything it can to meet demand, but we rely on the generosity of Tasmanians to keep our vital emergency and housing programs running.
After years of moving between crisis accommodation, motels and caravan parks, she finally found stability and support at Amelie House. “I packed what I could and left,” Sophie said. “But without a stable place to live, I lost care for my children because I couldn’t provide a roof over their heads. “I’m working hard to get things back on track, but it’s just such a struggle for so many in similar circumstances right now. “To be honest, Vinnies has been the first organisation that made me feel safe again.” Now living at Amelie House, Sophie is rebuilding her life and working toward reunification with her children. The service provides a safe, women-only environment where residents can access counselling, support services and guidance toward independent housing.
*name changed to protect identity
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ST VINCENT DE PAUL (TAS) LTD | ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT 2024-25
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