Jack's Story

Names have been changed to protect identity.

Our Y-shac youth crisis accommodation team first met Jack just before his 18th birthday.

His mum had passed away a few years before and Jack’s relationship with his dad was very strained. He was unable to live at home given the ongoing conflict, which often resulted in physical violence.

For the past two years Jack had been living in hostels, and was couch surfing between the homes of friends, but he soon wore out his welcome.

Jack was homeless and sleeping rough, until he was picked up by the Police for stealing food from a supermarket. He was referred to us for help.

Jack has a slight developmental delay which has impacted on his education and training. Our goal was to help Jack get back on his feet; to help him secure more permanent housing and work through some of his personal issues including substance abuse and chronic low self esteem.

Jack showed an interest in sailing and boat building. He was very keen to be part of the Leeuwin Training Ship program, and with our support was able to secure a scholarship to cover part of the costs of his initial voyage, however without equipment of special clothing for the trip he couldn’t go.

Thanks to Suitcase of Hope, we were able to purchase the clothing and equipment Jack needed.

Jack returned with a great deal of excitement and enthusiasm – so much so that he was chosen to join the ship’s volunteer crew. 

‘Had a great time, made lots and new friends and learnt heaps.  I know I can do things that I was scared to try before.’

After a little over two months with Y-shac, Jack was accepted into a medium term accommodation service, continues to volunteer and is looking for employment. Jack is slowly getting his life back on track.