My name is Sharmila, and earlier this month my life changed in a way I never imagined. A sudden and unexpected fire destroyed the home I was living in. Within minutes, everything I owned — my clothes, household essentials, sentimental belongings, and important personal items — was damaged or lost.

Because I was living in a rented property and did not have contents insurance, I have been left with no financial ability to recover these losses on my own. I am now trying to rebuild my life from scratch, while also managing the emotional impact of losing the little I had worked so hard to gather over the years.

For more than a decade, I have spent my life caring for others through my work in the aged and disability support sector, as well as through community involvement. Helping people has always been a part of who I am. Asking for help, however, has never been easy for me — but this situation has overwhelmed me in ways I never expected.

I am now facing the immediate challenges of:

• Finding and paying for temporary accommodation

• Replacing basic essentials (clothing, bedding, kitchenware, hygiene items)

• Saving for a bond and initial expenses to secure a stable home

• Rebuilding my household and regaining stability after this difficult time

I am humbly reaching out to ask for support from anyone who is able to help — whether through a donation or by sharing this page. Every contribution, no matter the amount, will directly help me with essential items and allow me to get back on my feet with dignity.

I am deeply grateful for any kindness and compassion shown during this difficult period. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for supporting me as I work to rebuild my life after this devastating event.

With gratitude,

Sharmila