Celebrating our one-year partnership with Bloodwood Tree Association

June 28, 2022

In December 2020, the Department of Communities engaged Foundation Housing and Bloodwood Tree Association to deliver the Hedland Aboriginal Home Ownership Program (HAHOP).

The program aims to increase independence and improve wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, while supporting them on a pathway towards home ownership if that is their goal.

Foundation Housing is currently managing 27 tenants in the program, and we are excited that, as of June 2022, nine of those tenants have celebrated their anniversary in their homes. Leeanne Day, a tenant since June 2021, will soon be leaving (as she has purchased her very first home). She has kindly shared her story with us.

Leeanne’s Story

Whilst living in a private rental, Leeanne tragically lost her partner in 2020 and had to seek emergency housing. Her friends were quick to suggest that she apply for the HAHOP With her application fast tracked due to her situation, Leeanne was moved into a Foundation Housing home within a month.

Leeanne and her grandson.

“I have been so lucky to be in this program, I don’t know where I would be without it. The house I have been living in is so homely and has been perfect for my situation. Foundation Housing and Bloodwood Tree have been so supportive of my journey and my goal to buy a home. I am still pinching myself because it doesn’t seem real,” said Leeanne.

When asked what advice she would give to others with similar goals, she said: “You must give it a go and believe in yourself. You have one life, so make the most of it. Don’t think twice about it.”

Congratulations to Leeanne, and all other HAHOP participants on their journey so far. To learn more about HAHOP and how to apply, click here.