Jack's Story
I’m Jack, and at 15, I found myself homeless after leaving my parents’ homes. Life had been tough — arguments with my mum turned violent, and my dad felt I couldn’t stay with his new family. With nowhere to go, I called crisis services, but most turned me away because of my age. Then I found TINOCA, a Youth Futures program. After a warm chat, they invited me for an interview and offered me a safe place to stay.
Walking into TINOCA, I was nervous, picturing a grim, crowded shelter. Instead, I got my own room, met other young people, and found staff who truly listened. At first, I felt out of place, but soon I made close friends and started to feel at home. TINOCA’s support helped me reflect on my family relationships. With their guidance and an outside mediator, I rebuilt my bond with my dad. After four months, I moved back home, graduated year 10 with great grades, and now live in my own place, thanks to Youth Futures’ help with a fridge and washing machine. TINOCA turned a dark time into a fresh start, and I’m grateful for the hope they gave me.