When a home means freedom
Linh is living a good life in Unison’s $30M affordable housing development in Melbourne’s West.
“I love living here. Life is beautiful! I have plenty of space, a big kitchen and a lovely bathroom and I am close to the shops.
But life has not been as “beautiful” for Linh.
Linh was born in Vietnam. After witnessing the death of friends and neighbours during the Vietnam War, he escaped across the border into Cambodia. He was 17 and it wasn’t an escape to freedom. Linh was quickly captured and imprisoned with hard labor for 12 months for being disloyal to his country.
Post prison Linh escaped Vietnam. As he prepared for his journey to Australia, he spent a year with Thai fishermen and learnt the Thai language. He then spent four years in a Thai refugee camp. In the refugee camp Linh volunteered as a public health worker. He also learnt English and became a camp translator. Linh arrived in Australia 33 years ago in your early 20’s.
However, his new life was clouded with ill health and transition; leaving his home and family, and his painful experiences continued to have an influence.
Three years ago, Linh was supported by Jesuit Social Services (JSS). At the same time, Unison had just completed its affordable housing development in the west. JSS referred Linh to Unison, he moved into his home, and his new life began.
Linh is now feeling happy and healthy.
“The staff at JSS and Unison have really helped me. I have played guitar most of my life and am really enjoying playing my music. I ride my bike and am concentrating on my health issues. I am also hoping to reconnect with my Community Services course, that I had to put on hold.”
Linh has three children: two daughters and a son. “My kids can come and visit me now. I see them every week and I am very proud of them and what they have achieved.”
“My home gives me freedom to focus on what I want in my life.”
“Please support the building of affordable homes. I don’t know why there are still people sleeping in tents. Some of them are older people. It is very sad.”
“Finally, I really want to thank Australia for my health and freedom.”
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