The First 1000 Days: How Support Transformed Stacey’s Life

n 2019, Stacey moved from Adelaide to Melbourne, seeking new opportunities and a fresh start. Initially living in shared housing, she gradually found her footing and secured a job that gave her a sense of stability. But life took an unexpected turn when she discovered she was pregnant. The father chose not to be involved, and with her family back in Adelaide, Stacey faced the daunting reality of becoming a single mother – alone in a new city.

The emotional toll was immense. Anxiety overwhelmed Stacey, and the stress of her job became too much to bear. Stacey left work early in her pregnancy and moved into another shared housing arrangement with a friend, struggling financially and emotionally.

During an antenatal check-up, the nurse asked Stacey about the support she had. Her honest answer, ‘None’, led to a life-changing referral to the Caroline Chisholm Society.

Through the First 1000 Days program, Stacey was connected with the First 1000 Days Practitioner, a midwife who supported her from pregnancy through to the birth of her daughter, Anna. The Practitioner provided essential baby items, assisted with Centrelink applications, accompanied Stacey to appointments, and introduced her to the Caroline Chisholm Society’s Specialist Housing Services Worker.

The Specialist Housing Services Worker helped Stacey navigate her current living situation and begin the search for a more permanent home. “Yes, I have family in Adelaide,” Stacey shared, “but it’s not the same as having someone here in person.”

Today, Stacey describes Anna as “a ray of sunshine” in her life. She is working toward getting her driver’s licence, returning to study, and finding employment. She currently lives in transitional housing and is hopeful about securing a stable home soon.