Client of the Support and Counselling Service (SACS)
When Jasmine first reached out to Parkerville’s Support and Counselling Service (SACS), she was navigating one of the most challenging moments of her life. Recently displaced from their home, she and her two children — Jake aged six and Jayde ten — were without a safe place to live. Each day was filled with uncertainty, and the instability had begun to take a toll. The children were missing more school than they were attending. Their attendance had dropped below 18%, and with it, they were missing out not only on education but also on the structure, social connection and sense of normalcy that school can offer.
This lack of routine was showing in the children’s behaviour. They were anxious, withdrawn and often overwhelmed. Even after they found secure transitional housing, they had difficulty regulating their emotions and settling into daily life. Jasmine was holding a lot – supporting her children, managing work and running a household – but the pressure on her and the children was constant.
SACS offered the family a safe space to gently process their experiences and begin to heal. With therapeutic support and one-on-one mentoring, they began to develop emotional tools to manage their feelings and feel more settled. The family also took part in group sessions and received practical help with school, routines and day-to-day challenges at home.
Together, they created a plan built on safety, connection, and hope, and gradually, things begun to shift. Jasmine secured longer-term housing and was able to establish new routines. Jake and Jayde returned to school, quickly making new friends and catching up with their peers. Their attendance is now above 90%, and they’re more engaged, confident, and settled than ever.
For Jasmine, this change has been profound.
“I honestly didn’t think we’d get through it. But having someone believe in us and walk alongside us, that made all the difference. They’re excited about school. Jayde has a wonderful circle of friends, and Jake is learning to play the drums. And I finally feel like we have a future.”
Jasmine’s story is a powerful reminder that with early, compassionate, and child-centred support, families can break the cycle of instability and step into a brighter, more secure future.
