A Night to Remember: FHL Tenants Experience the Magic of the Opera

October 30, 2025

For many of us, nights out at the Opera are rare and special — an escape into music, storytelling, and shared experience. For a group of Foundation Housing tenants, a recent trip to the Opera was all that and more: a celebration of belonging, connection, and the vibrant community that FHL works every day to support.

The evening was made even more memorable thanks to a beautiful video created by one of our tenants, capturing the joy, pride, and gratitude felt by everyone who attended. It’s a moving reminder of the power of community and the difference that inclusion can make.

The Power of Connection

Events like this go far beyond a night of entertainment. They offer opportunities for tenants to connect, share experiences, and build confidence in new settings. Many of our tenants have faced challenges that can make social connection difficult — from housing instability to isolation or mental health struggles.

By providing safe, inclusive, and positive experiences, FHL helps create the conditions for people to thrive. Getting out into the community, forming friendships, and being part of something uplifting has a direct impact on wellbeing. Research continues to show that social connection reduces stress, improves mood, and strengthens mental health.

Building Community Through Shared Experiences

At Foundation Housing, we believe that housing is just the beginning. It’s the platform that enables people to build lives of stability, purpose, and connection. Initiatives like the Opera event — and others such as community morning teas and the OzHarvest CEO CookOff — help foster this sense of belonging.

Here’s what one tenant shared about the OzHarvest CEO CookOff:

“It was a special evening with music and meeting great minds. We were treated like royal guests of honour — something I experienced for the first time. Such a calm and non-judgemental evening made me feel I belong to the community. Great minds with big hearts — thank you!”

When tenants come together, share stories, and feel valued, it reinforces a collective sense of pride and community ownership. These moments, whether big or small, remind us all that community housing is about people — their lives, their growth, and their dreams.

Creating Opportunities for Positive Change

This event highlights the importance of continued investment in programs and collaborations that nurture connection and deliver collective impact. When tenants feel included and supported, the outcomes ripple across our communities: better wellbeing, stronger relationships, and more vibrant neighbourhoods.

We’re proud to see our tenants shining, sharing their stories, and reminding us what community really means.

🎥 Watch the tenant-made video here.