Our Impact
Ella’s Story
There is a lot to be said for having a space of one’s own. The sense of security, privacy and peace that can be found from your own four walls is transformative. For Cocoon resident Ella, finding this space changed her life. The last five months have brought a reprieve from uncertainty but also a place to plan for the future. Cocoon has meant she’s never truly alone while still having a personal haven to carve a path forward- something she is determined to forge.
“I love having my own sanctuary. I love to join in the activities and laugh with the others. I find that I have so many opportunities. I think the best part is if I’m upset I can find someone and not be in that lonely state,” says Ella of her new home. “I was living with domestic violence and didn’t want to go home. I said to the police please find me somewhere else. I was so scared and I didn’t know what to do.”
Ella’s journey has led her to Cocoon where she is thriving in the supportive
environment. She’s taking control of her future by grabbing any chance and opportunity she can. Ella is a driven 17-year-old, but her determination has been able to flourish with the safety Cocoon offers. To study or hold down a job, make friendships, focus on health and just get through every day is a difficult task when suffering from housing uncertainty. Bridge It and Cocoon aim to provide all of the above but also hope for the future.
“I have been thinking about what I want my future to look like.” Says Ella. “I would like to work in community service and (Bridge It CEO) Carla has already given me opportunities.” Ella has completed a Community Services Certificate III but will be starting a Diploma in Community Services in April once she turns 18. Until then, she leaps at any opportunity to gain experience. She’s attended meetings, shared her story with state and federal leaders and taken part in fundraising efforts. “It makes me feel important. To be an advocate for the girls.” Ella also works outside of her voluntary efforts, her interests in business are fulfilled in her position at the RACV business centre.
Ella hopes young girls who have found themselves homeless or at risk will know how to seek assistance. “I really hope any young girls in the same situation aren’t afraid to ask for help. It’s not weak to accept help.” The young women who live at Cocoon all have different stories, histories and aspirations for the future. Just like Ella though, they need support not only to survive but also to see their dreams become the reality they deserve. A place like Cocoon aims to be the environment where this can happen and more.
Charlotte’s* Story
So many horrible things happened to me when I was a little kid. I was not safe with my family, so I was moved to multiple foster homes. I would mix water and toothpaste in a glass sometimes because I was so hungry when some of them refused to give me food. I was sent to live with a foster carer who had significant mental and physical health issues which resulted in me having to look after her.
One foster carer made me sleep outside in winter in a dog kennel and it was only when I climbed inside through the cat door, I was able to sleep inside. When I told child protection, they said that I was lying. I remember staying with my mum’s foster carer (yes – she had been in the system too!) and I was made to bathe in filthy water which was only replaced every 3 days.
I was continually passed through different foster care homes and never felt loved. I’m mature for my age because I had to grow up quickly. When I was 16, I was put into accommodation that is called “lead tenant” which is rental property where I was supposed to be living with an adult, but he was never there. I had the house broken into and everything stolen, it was so scary.
Now I am living at the Cocoon in Melbourne, and I am completing my year 12 equivalent. I have also recently finished a mechanic course and I have been offered a job. I’m currently learning how to drive. I feel safe and supported and like I have a real home.
The cocoon has offered me a safe and cozy space to be able to let my walls down and enjoy doing the little things in life. I have grown so much as a person in the past few months and having a little support group by my side.
*Name changed to protect identity
What other residents say
“I turn 21 soon and would have lost my support. But I can stay here. The workers here are some of the best I’ve encountered, so it’s been a good living situation, knowing I’m not alone.”
“The cocoon has offered me a safe and cozy space to be able to let my walls down and enjoy doing the little things in life. I have grown so much as a person.”
“It’s definitely a lot safer here. Everything is locked up, and we have our rooms. We’re safe with the people who come in and out; it’s not random people all the time. “