The Home She Has Kept for 20 Years

Olinda is 60 years old and has lived alone in the same rental flat for more than two decades. The space is simple, but it has given her something precious: consistency. After many years of instability, having a door she can close at night and a place that is familiar matters deeply.

As a transwoman growing up in an earlier generation, Olinda faced rejection from people around her, including within her own family. Finding steady employment was difficult. During periods when she could not secure other work, she worked as a social companion to support herself financially.

Those years came at a cost. She experienced verbal and physical abuse, especially when she tried to protect her own boundaries. The impact of those experiences remains with her today.

Olinda is currently under regular psychiatric follow-up and takes medication for her mental health condition. She experiences episodes of hallucinations and emotional distress. When she feels overwhelmed or misunderstood, she can struggle with emotional regulation and may react impulsively. Even so, she continues to attend her medical appointments and stays committed to treatment.

Her flat has become more than just a place to live. It is the one space where she feels a measure of safety.

Trying to Find Work, Facing Rejection

In her early 40s, Olinda made the decision to leave the nightlife scene and look for other employment. She wanted something more stable. Over the years, she applied for various jobs but encountered repeated rejection, often linked to discrimination surrounding her gender identity.

Each rejection made it harder to keep trying.

Physical health challenges have added another layer of difficulty. Her eyes tire easily, and she struggles to stand for long periods. This limits the kind of work she is physically able to sustain.

Her social circle is small. Trust does not come easily after what she has lived through. One steady presence in her life is her neighbour and close friend, William, who remains an important source of companionship and reassurance.

Olinda also holds onto the memory of her late father’s acceptance. While much of her life was shaped by rejection, his quiet support affirmed that she deserved dignity and care. That memory continues to matter to her.

Living With a Monthly Gap

Olinda relies on government assistance, but it does not fully cover her basic living expenses.

The shortfall creates ongoing strain. When finances feel uncertain, it affects her emotional stability and increases her anxiety.

Staying in a familiar home environment and continuing regular psychiatric care are important to maintaining her mental health. Stability is not a luxury for Olinda. It is part of her treatment.

What Your Support Will Help With

We are seeking $488.64*, which will provide $80 per month for six months. 

The funds will go toward groceries, utilities, transport, and other daily necessities that her current assistance cannot fully cover. This additional support will help bridge the monthly gap she faces and reduce some of the financial pressure she carries.

With this buffer, Olinda can remain in the home she has kept for more than 20 years, continue attending her medical appointments, and manage her daily life with greater steadiness.

After years of trying to manage largely on her own, this support will help her hold onto the stability she has worked hard to maintain.

*The campaign goal includes a 1.8% payment processing fee.