Duncan's Story
Hey, I’m Duncan, 19, and before finding TINOCA I’d been crashing on friends’ couches. Growing up, things at home were rough. My mum wasn’t really there for me, my stepdad didn’t want me around, and living with my dad wasn’t safe because of his drug use. My uncle’s harsh words made it even worse. I’ve always done okay at school, but with no stable place to sleep, staying focused was tough. I’ve lived with anxiety and depression since I was a kid, and finding help felt impossible.
Then I found TINOCA, Youth Futures’ emergency accommodation, and it’s been a game-changer. When a friend asked me to leave their place, I called Youth Futures, hoping for a bed. From the moment I arrived, the team wrapped me in support. They helped me figure out what I want for my future and how to keep my part-time job, which gives me the independence I crave. I don’t want to go back to my parents, but I hope to reconnect with my mum someday.
At TINOCA, I learned practical stuff like cooking and budgeting, and their encouragement built my confidence to live on my own. I’m so excited to get my own place soon and start this next chapter. Thanks, TINOCA, for giving me hope and a fresh start.