Written by: Nick Mezzabarba
I wanted:
- To be more independent
- To meet new people
- To learn new strategies to deal with challenges
I talked with my parents about moving out and they were on board with the idea. My parents helped me search for a suitable place. The advocates at SAL helped me register for Affordable Housing.
I was accepted for an apartment right away. I declined because there was a strong odour of cigarette smoke in the apartment. A couple of months later, I found a place that was awesome!
The reasons I appreciate my new apartment are: it’s soundproof even though I live downtown and it’s also centrally located. It’s close to Dollarama, the Credit Union, the library and the waterfront. The bus system is also excellent, as compared to Kingston Ontario where I lived previously.
I recently bought an air conditioner and it keeps my apartment cool during the summer. There’s also a nice warm shower.
The rent is affordable. Hydro and hot water are included.
Some of the challenges of living on my own during Covid were being shut in and not being able to meet new people.
The things I love about living on my own are:
- Keeping my apartment clean and tidy
- Being grateful that I have a place to live and that I’m not homeless
- Making my own decisions
- Getting to know my neighbours and neighbourhood
What I would like others to know about living on their own:
- Try it and see how it goes.
- Have a positive attitude.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
- You can do anything if you set your mind to it.
There are responsibilities that come with being an adult, but it’s also fun. Balance is the key.
Thanks for reading my story about moving out.
