What does this support look like?

Our support for older adults includes transitional housing, housing advocacy, working to sustain tenancies, Community Learning Centre classes and practical support with food, clothing, linen, household goods and furniture. Seniors experience physical isolation but are further disadvantaged by the digital divide. De Paul House can help. 

Our Community Learning Centre which includes computer training, a chromebook and accessible internet relies on donations and philanthropic trusts. Without your donations it could not continue! 

This service has seen an increase in single people in their late 50’s and above, who are not yet eligible for superannuation. Many under 65’s have owned homes, and businesses. Due to circumstances out of their control, such as deteriorating health, loss of employment and family breakdown, they fall between the cracks. They may end up on a jobseeker benefit which is significantly less than a pension. Age is a frequent barrier to re-employment. This becomes a spiral of debt, substandard housing and a daily struggle to meet their day-to-day expenses.

For those over 65 years, reliant solely on superannuation, life is no easier. They are eligible for our transitional housing. Their situation reflects similar challenges as the under 65s. Many resort to moving in with family and we often see intergenerational families. Some are working part time and still struggle to meet their household bills. 

Paul and Louise* 68 & 67 years had a successful business and had bought property. When both experienced major health issues, they lost both. They were so distressed to find themselves faced with homelessness and in debt. When they were referred for help, they spoke of their feelings of shame and despondency. The relief of being able to move into one of our units and be supported into affordable housing was evident. *Not their real names.