From shelter to support

Published: 

7 February 2025 12:26PM

'The day Kim offered to help me was the day I realised that noone must work through things on their own and there is always a way to turn things around.'

Eight years ago, Cheyenne walked into the Logan Housing Service Centre (HSC) feeling lost.

Homeless and with no friends or family to turn to, her beloved dog was her only companion. That day, she met Kim, a RentConnect Officer whose compassion marked a turning point in her journey.

Kim listened to Cheyenne’s story and worked with her to find temporary accommodation that allowed her to keep her dog, Kylo-Ren.

Cheyenne transitioned into a shared rental property and 6 months later, her flatmate introduced her to a friend who has now become her husband, and together they have a daughter.

Now, all these years later, Cheyenne has come full circle; currently completing a traineeship at the Logan HSC, she is on the path to becoming a Housing Officer herself.

'After I met Kim, I knew I wanted to help people the same way she helped me. I wanted to be someone’s helping hand,' Cheyenne shares.

Cheyenne’s experiences have shaped her approach to her work.

'What better way to help my community than to have experienced what they’re going through? Sometimes people feel at ease knowing that you’ve been there too,' she explains.

For Cheyenne, making a difference isn’t always about grand gestures.

'Sometimes it’s just listening when someone has no one to talk to,' she said.

Cheyenne’s traineeship in Community Services has been supported by a departmental mentoring program called Yarn and Grow, which she describes as a lifeline of encouragement.

'I’ve met so many supportive people. My mentor has been amazing, and the network of mentees has become a mob I can rely on for anything,' she says.

For Kim, seeing Cheyenne’s transformation has been deeply moving.

'When I saw her again in December 2024, I was overwhelmed. Cheyenne’s journey is a testament to the power of support, determination, and kindness. Knowing she’s now helping others in the community is incredibly rewarding,' Kim reflects.

Cheyenne’s advice to those facing housing challenges is simple:

'Don’t beat yourself up if you’re struggling to find a place. Ask for help, and remember, there are people ready to support you.'

Working at a Housing Service Centre

Learn more about what it is like to work at a Housing Service Centre or find out more about the jobs available on SmartJobs.

If you or someone you know needs housing help, call 13 QGOV (13 74 68) or contact your local Housing Service Centre.

If you are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness, contact the Homeless Hotline free on 1800 474 753 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

Find out more about housing help and support.

Cheyenne and Kim outside the Logan HSC.