Pam’s story: “I consider myself one of the lucky ones.”

Originally from Hastings, Pam says she had a troubled childhood and left home when she was 14 years old. “I worked on farms for many years, living in and tending to the animals amongst other things. After being so hurt during my childhood years, I was always more comfortable with animals than people.”

She left farm life behind and moved north to Auckland, where she worked in factories for most of her remaining working life. “They were tough jobs, but we had fun and I had a good life,” she says. Pam, who has rented all her life, has a very optimistic outlook on life which has held her in good stead through troubled times.

“I am naturally a happy-go-lucky person and love life. There was a time when I struggled with depression and life was difficult, but I overcame that and got on with things,” she says.

“Having always been on my own, I’m very independent and nothing much phases me now. I live with my little bird who keeps me company and I’ve always had good friends.”

Pam says Stevenson Village was a godsend when she moved in, and she feels so fortunate to live in a community that’s safe, secure and well cared for. “I know there is a long waiting list for units, so I feel so fortunate to have been here for so long. The more affordable rent makes a difference – and I have a lovely unit, a garden out the back and a very pleasant outdoor area at the front.”

Pam says that while she can tend to most things herself thanks to her years of farming, it’s reassuring to know that most of the maintenance is taken care of. “I spoke to the Stevenson Village manager, Kylie, about something in my unit that needed fixing and it was taken care of a few hours later. She always listens and gets things done – it makes such a difference.”

“It’s a good life here and I consider myself one of the lucky ones.”