My name is Bec, and I’m raising funds for my elderly neighbours, Ted (80) and Viv (78), who are facing homelessness this October.

I went to see them last night and they were both in tears. After 16 years in the same rental home, always paying on time and never causing trouble, they simply can no longer afford the $550 per week rent due to rising living costs. Electricity, medication, and specialist appointments have increased, and their savings have been drained trying to stay afloat.

They can realistically afford $400–$450 per week and have applied for hundreds of properties in that range with no success. They have no pets, a perfect rental history, and have done everything “right” their whole lives. Yet in the current housing crisis, they are at risk of losing their home.

Viv was her mum’s full-time carer until she passed away last year, and since then the financial and emotional strain has compounded. They are now skipping food and medical needs to try to cover rent. When they sought help, they were told that because they have a car, they are not considered homeless as they could technically sleep in it.

At 80 and 78 years old.

What broke my heart most is that in their despair, they have quietly said that not waking up sometimes feels like the only solution to their housing situation. That is how overwhelmed and frightened they are. They are proud, kind people who do not want to burden anyone, and asking for help is incredibly hard for them.

This is important to me because no elderly couple who has worked hard, paid their rent faithfully, and contributed to their community should feel that hopeless. No one in their 70s and 80s should be facing homelessness or sleeping in a car.

The funds raised will be used to:

• Cover the rental gap so they can remain safely housed

• Assist with bond and moving costs if a suitable affordable property becomes available

• Support essential expenses such as food, electricity, and medication

• Provide breathing space while longer-term housing is secured

This fundraiser is about stability, dignity, and safety. It is about giving Ted and Viv time, security, and hope.

If you are able to donate or share, it truly matters.