Sharlene has navigated a whirlwind of changes, moving from homelessness to transitional accommodation, and finally to her own home in December 2024. Though excited to begin the next chapter of her journey, she recalls feeling nervous about living independently - a significant change after living in Uniting WA ‘s Koort Boodja crisis accommodation with 24/7 wrap-around support. 

Sharlene is gradually rediscovering the things she enjoys while getting used to a new way of life. Taking it day by day, she wants people to know that adjusting to new surroundings doesn't happen overnight. The gradual reduction of support often leaves those transitioning back into housing feeling overwhelmed. 

"I'm still trying to figure out how to organise furniture, food vouchers, and get where I need to go without a car," says Sharlene. 

During her time at Koort Boodja, Sharlene enjoyed cooking for fellow residents, even making damper during Uniting WA's NAIDOC Week event last year. Now, with a kitchen of her own, she enjoys exploring new recipes and hosting her son and his partner for dinner every weekend. 

Sharlene finds peace tending to her garden and plants, with plans to bring life to the trees out the front. Gardening has become a therapeutic pastime, allowing her to enjoy the fresh air and reset. A goal Sharlene has set for herself is finding a job, exploring opportunities in volunteer work and cleaning. She feels having a job will make her feel stronger and more independent. 

Sharlene has found home again, but her passion for homelessness support services in Perth remains strong, keeping in touch with Uniting WA and the Tranby Engagement Hub community.  

Now a fan of reality TV show Survivor, Sharlene draws an interesting comparison between homelessness and the show's challenges, where contestants compete for their next meal to survive. The difference, she notes, is that rough sleepers aren't being filmed, and don't have a backup plan. She reflects on waiting for food relief in the cold. 

Sharlene's journey is a testament to her resilience and determination. As she adapts to her new surroundings, she looks forward to the future, one step at a time. Still a quiet observer of her surroundings, she still likes to watch the world go by – only now, she can do it from her front garden.