How education scholarships help tenants to thrive

While many company leaders talk about being purpose-driven, few have stories to share like this one.

Many people in our community recognise the Key2 Realty team for their dedication to quality property management services across the Central Coast and beyond. But, you may not know about how — and why — we operate.

Key2 Realty is a social enterprise business; we’re owned by Pacific Link Housing which is a non profit Community Housing Provider. That means that we’re different from most other property management agencies because our profits will help support Pacific Link Housing's tenant programs, including educational scholarships.

Meet Gabby, Bachelor of Social Science student

These educational scholarships, awarded twice each year, provide financial assistance to tenants and their children to reach their educational pursuits and fulfil their potential. One of those tenants is Gabby. Gabby and her two siblings have been Pacific Link Housing tenants since they were babies. Gabby’s mother left school in year nine and went on a disability pension for most of her life. It meant that she was unable to study or work, and needed housing support to raise her children. As Gabby became a teenager, she aspired to be the first in her family to attend University. Her goal was to study social work, and give back to people in her community, like her, who need a little extra support to achieve their dreams.

“With the help and encouragement that my family’s received, it really drives me to help other people.” said Gabby. “I want everyone in need to receive the same support.”

Gabby, now aged 23, has twice been the recipient of Pacific Link Housing’s educational scholarships which has enabled her to study a Bachelor of Social Science. Now completing the final semester of her degree, the scholarship has supported Gabby to focus on her studies without any financial burden.

“I received a laptop and printer, and had my opal card topped up so I could catch the train to University.” said Gabby. “These practical things meant I could attend all of my classes and complete assignments. It gave me the space to focus on my education rather than how I was going to afford it. The scholarship took an enormous burden off my shoulders when I needed it most.”

Before gaining the scholarship, Gabby and her mother were surviving on very modest Centrelink payments that barely covered the basics like food and medical costs. Gabby didn’t have a computer, so it was difficult for her to complete her University assignments.

Since being part of the scholarship program, Gabby has grown in confidence and happiness and made her family proud. Gabby also feels extremely fortunate that her family had housing security through her childhood and early adulthood.

“I believe that it was living in one place and having a secure home environment that was the foundation for me to go to University,” said Gabby.

Gabby is a true inspiration and the Key2 team wish her the best of luck for her future.

If you’d like to know more about how your investment property can help support students like Gabby succeed, please contact our team at Key2 Realty.