Yesterday was one of those days when dreams do actually come true. After eight years on the Homeswest public housing waiting list (including four years on the Priority List), Alex signed up for his forever home. He is the uber-proud lessee of a one bedroom villa on one of Perth's main drags. Two houses from a major shopping and cappuccino strip. Bus at the doorstep, so he can easily make his way to all his weekly activities.
Alex's house boasts both front and back courtyards, with a side path and a clothesline outside his laundry. These areas are a bit sad at present due to the proliferation of weeds. However, somebody had created garden beds and some of the plants are still alive and kicking. Can't wait to get into his little garden with the secateurs and a hose. There is even a little pond in the front. Clean it up and add goldfish? Not sure at this stage. The yuccas are certainly doing well in their positions. I discovered this fact as one stabbed me in the forehead as I was poking around. I am now sporting a tender lump on my left temple to remind me that my disaster genes are fully functional.
His property is fully fenced. Step inside to an open plan living/dining/kitchen area. Newish lino and a brand spanking new gas upright stove and oven. Nice bland tiles and only one burn mark where a previous tenant didn't know that hot saucepans and laminex benchtops don't mix well. A functional gas heater is in the living area. All his windows are screened. Bathroom and laundry are combined. Shower, loo, sinks and linen storage. There are actually cupboards everywhere, except in the kitchen! Never mind.
Alex's bedroom is at the front, large and with built in robes. The traffic is ever-present but this will not worry him in the least. He quite likes the hustle and bustle of busy areas and once he's asleep, he is impervious to most noise. And an added bonus - no air-conditioning. Others may not agree but as long as Alex is warm, he remains happy. And the beach is only a short bus ride away.
Julie, the allocation officer at Homeswest seemed as delighted as we were. Pascal, Alex's indispensable support worker was also there to share in Alex's triumph. Next week, I hope to organise another clean of Alex's home - the floors really need a good scrub, amongst other jobs - and we will move him the week after that.
At long last, my autistic superstar has most of his life's goals. A place to call his own. Friends, outings, the Baptists (I love them for what they have done for Alex), the Bible College, studying for his Diploma in Hospitality, back in the Warehouse Cafe where his love affair with food really took off.
Last on his agenda will be a part-time job in food! And with Alex, the sky is the limit.
Alex in the Masterchef Challenge at the Duncraig Senior High School kitchen.
With Poh Ling Yeow at the official opening of the Warehouse Cafe in Shenton Park. She ate all Alex's cupcake!
With Adrienne at the BeFriend Ball.
With one of his best buddies, Chris.
Alex's new bedroom, flooded with afternoon light.
built in robes!
Living area (with gas heater) looking towards the front door and courtyard.
His new kitchen,
Lack of cupboards is made up for by a pantry. And his gorgeous shiny stove!
Bathroom (decent sized shower in the right) and laundry leading outside to the side path and his clothesline.
BLISS
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