Carly's story

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After escaping family violence, Carly* and her partner Mike* discovered they were expecting their first child while experiencing homelessness. With no safe place to call home, they spent most of her pregnancy living in the backseat of their car, navigating each day in a constant state of stress and survival.

In search of safety and stability, they connected with a local community organisation that helped them into transitional housing. With support, they were able to access accommodation ahead of their baby’s arrival. However, Carly experienced complications during her pregnancy that left her with ongoing health issues after giving birth. Mike became her full-time carer, unable to return to work while looking after Carly and their newborn daughter.

“We were constantly needing nappies. We spent a lot of the time struggling with a decision no family should be making: do we feed ourselves or keep our family hygienic?”

At a time of desperation, she was able to access nappies through a family support service linked to The Nappy Collective. These nappies helped ease the financial burden, helping them cover basic needs like food and shelter.

“Donations saved us. We were able to put food on the table or be able to pay a bill to keep us going.”

Today, Carly and Mike are still in a tight situation, but looking ahead with hope. But during their time of crisis, access to nappies provided the dignity, care and practical support every family deserves.

*Names have been changed to protect individual’s privacy