Lyn’s Story
Last year I found myself homeless. I have a background of childhood trauma and domestic violence and was living in my car. When I first arrived at Catherine House, I was suicidal, I isolated myself and was afraid to come out of my room. After a week or so, I felt like I was in a safe environment to make positive changes. At the time, I was the oldest of the women staying at Catherine House, and I wanted to show them that it doesn’t matter how old you are, you can do this.
I started a University pathways program and talked with the Employment & Education Officer, Sharon. She has supported me immensely, as have all the other staff at Catherine House.
While I now live in my own home, I still keep connected with Catherine House, especially through the Women’s Centre. This is a forever connection for me. I want to advocate for women and help empower them, and if I can help get it out to the world that I’m nearly 50, and I’ve started education again, gone back to university again, it’s never too late. I want to let women know that it’s possible.