Maria’s Story

My name is Maria* (not her real name). I’m a fifty one year old woman who came to Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Women’s Shelter in February 2024.

The day I arrived I was a broken, humiliated and demoralised person. I had been through so much. The experiences I endured prior to becoming homeless were not ideal for living. I tried to opt out of life. Homelessness can happen to anyone at any time.

I finally called HKWS and this was to be my introduction to a truly wonderful woman. Her name is Munira. Luckily for me she became my key caseworker.

By the time I came to HKWS I had no faith in humanity whatsoever. I don’t know how the team did it but they helped me to become a strong and independent woman. They treated me with kindness, compassion and most importantly respect.

Every caseworker (I call them care workers) at HKWS has a special place in my heart. I cannot thank them enough. Every shelter needs people like the beautiful souls there. They work so hard and you can tell it’s more than just a job to them.

Angelica the Shelter Manager is a wonderful supportive, kind and caring person who runs the shelter with compassion and treats everyone with dignity and respect. The staff and the clients. She has created a place where I felt like I was at home. I felt safe and secure.

I had an exit form to fill out and one of the questions asked if there was any way to improve the service. Honestly, I couldn’t think of a single thing. I wrote this on the second night in my new apartment. I went from homeless to hopeful in ten weeks all because of their help, support and caring natures. I couldn’t have done this without them. Once again thank you!