Cliff is one of the growing number of people who has reached out to Uniting Vic.Tas housing and homelessness services.
Cliff had been living in a caravan near Ballarat after finding himself homeless through the breakdown of his marriage.
The 65-year-old reached out to Uniting when his savings dried up, leaving him with just $90 in his bank account and unable to afford the weekly caravan park rent.
“It was a scary time. Living in a caravan isn’t ideal, but at least it’s somewhere to sleep at night,” says Cliff.
Cliff tried to sign up to receive Centrelink payments, but was told this would have to be done online.
“I struggled, because I’m not very good at using computers,” says Cliff.
“It was daunting, and I didn’t know what to do.
“I feel really lucky that I found Uniting and they’ve been able to help. I don’t know what I would have done without them.”
Cliff now receives Centerlink payments and has applied for public housing.
Cliff says while he wanted to seek help earlier, his mental health battles stopped him from doing so.
“I wasn’t in a good place, mentally,” he said.
“I knew I needed help, but I was in a rut.
“I’m glad I did though.
“People need to know there are places like Uniting that can help. You don’t have to do it on your own.”
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