A Place to Call Home: Maya’s Story

Dear Friend,

If you are reading this, it probably means you have just connected with the team at Human & Co. I remember how it felt walking into a service for the first time, not knowing what to expect or whether anyone would really understand what I had been through.

My name is Maya*. I came to Human & Co MOMO service after another client told me about their experience and said the workers were kind and supportive. At that time, I had been living in temporary accommodation for a long time after experiencing sexual assault and domestic violence in a relationship. As a transgender woman, asking for help had not always been easy. In the past I had felt judged, dismissed, and sometimes unsafe when trying to access services.

When I first connected with MOMO, things started to change. My case worker took the time to listen and helped me gather the evidence I needed to reapply for Priority Housing. They wrote a strong support letter and met with me regularly at the Gender Centre, which was a place where I felt safe and comfortable.

They also helped me with other parts of my life, not just housing. I was supported to connect with legal services to review my Victims Services application, linked with LGBTQIA+ mental health supports, and guided through applying for the Disability Support Pension so I could have more financial stability.

One of the most helpful things was the safety planning and learning ways to manage some of the trauma I was carrying. Simple things like blocking unsafe contacts and understanding my responses helped me feel more in control again. It felt like a huge weight had been lifted off my shoulders.

With their support, I was eventually approved for Priority Housing in the area I wanted. Having a stable place to call home has made such a difference. I feel safer, more confident, and proud of how far I have come.
If you are starting your journey with the service, I just want you to know that you deserve support and respect. The people here care and will walk alongside you while you figure things out.
You are not alone.

Take care,