“It’s really grounded me. I feel a lot of more connected to a community and I haven’t really had that before,” she says.
She was connected to a doula in the community, who o ered to support Carly through her pregnancy free of charge – usually there are out of pocket costs. As Carly and her doula’s connection strengthened through the months of her pregnancy, her doula became inspired by Carly’s story and wanted to help more young mothers in need. Carly’s doula went on to cofound Birth for Humankind. A not-for-profit organisation designed to support hundreds of women like Carly, who face additional barriers and challenges during their pregnancy. When Huxley was two years old, Birth for Humankind invited Carly to join their Board of Directors. Carly was one of the youngest female Board Directors in Australia during her time on the Board. Her passion and interest for the not for profit sector stems from her work with Birth for Humankind, and once Carly completes her studies (Communications at Deakin University) she hopes to find work in the sector. “I’ve had a very transient life. I haven’t spent more than four years in one place since I was four years old. I grew up moving from house to house with a single mum who was raising three kids on her own – me being one of them – and the challenges that go with that,” says Carly.
Carly loves the additional support available, and that makes Housing Choices di erent to the private rental market. The strong relationship between neighbours is something she is also very grateful for. “The first night I moved in my neighbours next door invited me to dinner. We take each other’s bins out, stop and say hello and ask how the kids are going. It’s just really lovely,” says Carly. “There’s that sense of stability and structure…it goes back to community connection and knowing there are people in place that will support you,” she continues.
This makes her all the happier and more appreciative for the community that surrounds her and her home now.
Pictured: Carly’s son, Huxley
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Housing Choices Australia | Annual Report 2019-20
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