When Grace* lost her home, she didn't know where to turn. After a period in a Refuge Hostel Arrangement, the council referred her to Cambridge Cyrenians, and since July 2025, she has been settled in our supported accommodation, beginning what has become a journey back to herself.

Navigating the homelessness system can feel confusing and overwhelming. But Grace didn't have to face it alone. Our project workers were with her every step of the way, helping her to make sense of the process and alleviating her concerns.

"There's no place like home," Grace told us. "I am just thankful I have a place to call home. That word… stability, it's so important."

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A home, and so much more

At Cambridge Cyrenians, a safe place to live is just the beginning. Grace has benefitted from the full breadth of our wraparound support, and the difference it has made to her life is remarkable.

Determined to build her independence, Grace connected with Shanice, our Meaningful Activities Manager. Together, they put together Grace's very first CV, explored job opportunities, worked through applications, and built up her IT and digital confidence - skills that can help to open so many doors.

Amy, one of our Project Workers, developed a personalised support plan for Grace, which she describes as "really helpful - it's helping me to move forward in the world."  

And it's the smaller moments that can mean just as much. Grace received a pair of reading glasses after we booked her in for an eye test at our office. Over Christmas, we delivered a hamper to her door, and for Grace, who was spending the holidays in her home alone, it made all the difference at what can be a deeply isolating time of year for many.

Grace is also a regular on our resident trips and activities, discovering new places, hobbies and experiences, and, just as importantly, new friendships. Connection, she says, is everything.

That sense of community has given Grace a renewed confidence. Now, she is volunteering two days a week and is on a programme with the job centre to support finding a job. Ultimately, her goal is to find a place of her own.

She has a renewed sense of purpose, and things are on the up. “I’m living in the present. You must acknowledge and appreciate what you have. I’m now living a life. I didn’t know what I was living before...but now I’m waking up in my own bed and looking forward to coming back to my home at the end of the day.”

And above all, Grace is so grateful for Cambridge Cyrenians for giving her a chance and for helping her to change her life for the better. “It’s people like you at Cambridge Cyrenians that give me hope. Thank you very much.”

You make stories like Grace's possible

Grace's journey is a reminder of what's possible when people are given the right support at the right time. Behind every step forward is a team of dedicated staff and volunteers, and behind them, the generosity of people like you.

If Grace's story has moved you, please consider making a donation to Cambridge Cyrenians today. Your support helps us to be there for the next person who doesn't know where to turn.

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*Name changed to protect individual’s privacy.

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