Kylie

"From Backpacker to Community Advocate: Kylie's Orange Sky Journey"

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In the heart of a community recovering from the impacts of COVID-19, Kylie's story stands as a testament to the power of support services and the resilience of the human spirit. Her journey, from discovering Orange Sky's services at a backpackers hostel in Sydney to becoming an advocate for community support, illustrates the transformative impact of organizations like Orange Sky.

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Kylie's introduction to Orange Sky came during a challenging time in her life. "I actually found out about Orange Sky years ago. I was actually out at a backpackers in the middle of Sydney," she recalls. "That's how I found out about the laundry service. They have food vans down there usually around dinner time. So go down and get a free feed and do me washing as well."

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This experience left a lasting impression on Kylie, shaping her perspective on the importance of community support services. Now, she finds herself in a community grappling with the aftermath of the pandemic. "Since COVID, a lot of people have moved. Yeah, so much has happened. A lot of businesses have also shut down," Kylie explains. "So yeah, just everyone's in recovery mode, especially this year."

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Despite her own financial limitations, being on a pension, Kylie is determined to give back to her community. "If I can, I volunteer," she says. "I have offered these guys a couple of times, also a couple of times a week." Her dedication to volunteering underscores the importance of community involvement in addressing social issues, particularly homelessness.

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Kylie's appreciation for Orange Sky and similar services is evident in her description of how they operate. "They have a little lunch on, so come up here, put your washing on, go get some lunch, and by the time lunch is finished, clothes are done," she explains. But she also sees room for growth, adding, "I reckon they need to do so much more for the community. They're a really nice community center."

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One of Kylie's main concerns is the need for more comprehensive support for those experiencing homelessness. She points out a potential opportunity: "There is a building here that's out of commission. I thought that they would have it for the homeless. I don't know if they did or not." Her vision extends beyond just providing a place to stay, emphasizing the need for a "step to recovery" and linking people to long-term housing solutions.

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Kylie also raises important questions about mental health support and community safety. She expresses concern about the allocation of funds for mental health services and the need for improved security measures in the community.

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Through her story, Kylie highlights the multifaceted nature of homelessness and the importance of a holistic approach to addressing it. From laundry services and food vans to mental health support and temporary housing, each element plays a crucial role in supporting those in need and fostering community recovery.
Kylie's journey from service user to community advocate exemplifies the potential for positive change when individuals and organizations come together to support those in need. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that services like Orange Sky can have, not just in meeting immediate needs, but in empowering individuals to give back and contribute to their communities.