Heather and Lucas’s story

It’s difficult to imagine how unbearable life would have to become to choose homelessness as the safer option to remaining at home.

This was the position Heather* and her son Lucas were in last winter during another drunken rage by Heather’s husband Chris.

Chris was out of control, and Heather feared for their safety. In that moment, she made the brave decision to leave.

I can’t do it anymore. We have to get out.

Heather and Lucas jumped in the car and took off. They spent the night shivering in the back seat.

Fortunately, however, Heather had a plan. She’d been meeting with a domestic violence specialist from Mission Australia, and together they’d developed a safety plan for when they were in danger.

The following day Heather met with Fiona, who cared for them and organised a room in a safe house out of town.

After years of fear, they could finally breathe.

Over the coming weeks, Fiona helped them secure longer-term housing. We supplied furniture and other items, and helped them move in to their new home.

Heather recently started a new job, and Lucas has settled in at school.

Heather knows they owe their safety and independence to generous people like you. She’s thankful for all the help they’ve received, but worries for other families with young children who don’t have any support.

Lucas and I have our lives back thanks to Mission Australia and its supporters. We’re so grateful. I wish other mums, dads and kids could get the help we did too.

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