Annie's story - finding hope after homelessness

Ill health meant she could no longer work, and with nowhere to go she found herself sleeping in her car — scared, cold and completely alone.

Each night she tried to find a hidden place to park, hoping no one would notice her. She woke every morning not knowing what the day would bring. “For the first time in my life,” she said, “I felt truly vulnerable.”

But Annie didn’t give up. When she reached out through Porchlight’s online rough sleeping referral form, she was connected with Connie, one of our Women’s Outreach Workers — and everything began to change.

Connie became a lifeline. She made sure Annie’s housing application wasn’t forgotten, helped her apply for Universal Credit and PIP, and gave her the reassurance she desperately needed at a time when every small task felt overwhelming. For the first time in months, Annie began to feel hopeful.

“She was over the moon,” Connie remembers. Together, they collected the keys and opened the door to a new start.

Thanks to Porchlight’s Rapid Rehousing Fund — made possible by supporters like you — Annie was able to furnish her home with essentials: a bed to sleep in, a sofa to rest on, a table where she could sit and eat in comfort and dignity. Connie even helped assemble the furniture.

Today, Annie is settling in well. Her two adopted cats provide warmth, routine and companionship. Her flat finally feels like a safe, peaceful home.

Annie’s journey shows exactly what your generosity makes possible. With compassion, understanding and practical help, people can begin to rebuild their lives, no matter their age or circumstances.

Thank you for helping Annie — and so many others — find their way home.