Finding Strength in Fire: Jess’s Journey of Resilience and Community

September 26, 2024

Jess’s journey is one of resilience, community, and a lifelong passion for firefighting. 

When she moved into a Foundation Housing Lodge in early 2024, it marked a significant turning point in her life. After nearly two years of unstable housing—couch surfing, staying with friends, and even living in a caravan during hot summers—Jess was ready for a fresh start. Before that, she had spent nine months in crisis accommodation, which provided some stability but lacked the feeling of home that she deeply longed for. Jess knew that to reclaim her independence and rebuild her life, she needed a permanent place to call “home,” and Foundation Housing was the beginning of that journey. 

When she was offered a room at the Newcastle Street Lodge, Jess jumped at the opportunity. It provided the stability she desperately needed, while keeping her on the waitlist for a home in the northern suburbs—a place close to her roots, where she grew up. Living at the Lodge has given Jess her freedom back: no curfews, no restrictive meal plans, a central location, and a supportive community. Adjusting to grocery shopping and cooking her own meals was challenging at first, but it became a way for Jess to regain her independence. Now, she enjoys the flexibility of choosing what to eat and when, something that has given her a new sense of control and comfort. 

The Lodge’s stability has also allowed Jess to focus on what she loves—firefighting.

Her passion for firefighting began at just 14, inspired by a close friend who joined the local brigade. By the time Jess was 16, she had completed her training, learning about fire behaviour, safety protocols, and the skills needed to fight fires. Over the years, she’s become a seasoned volunteer firefighter, having put out over 200 fires and participated in major firefighting efforts, including the devastating Yanchep fires in 2009 and 2019. These experiences have shaped Jess into a person with deep ties to her community, through both her firefighting and her time at the Lodge. One of her proudest moments was leading cadet teams to championships in Sydney, where she served as second-in-charge of her unit until the program paused in 2021 due to COVID-19. Even while adjusting to life at the Lodge, Jess continues her involvement by managing catering for courses and social club events, and she’s eager to get back to active duty. 

Since moving into the Lodge, Jess has found meaningful connections with her neighbours. Every Friday afternoon, a group gathers for food deliveries from OzHarvest. It’s a time to catch up, share stories, and support one another—creating a sense of camaraderie similar to what Jess feels with her fellow firefighters. These friendships have helped her regain a sense of belonging.

For Jess, living at the Lodge is about much more than just having a roof over her head. It’s about reclaiming her independence and building lasting connections. Her advice for others facing tough housing situations is simple yet powerful: “Make connections that are going to be helpful and safe. Surround yourself with people you feel secure around, and always have a buddy system. It can make all the difference.” 

Jess’s story is a testament to the strength and hope that can emerge, even in the face of adversity. For her, Newcastle Street Lodge isn’t just a place to stay—it’s the foundation on which she’s rebuilding her life.