After suffering through homelessness, Ms Stevens is now looking forward to putting down permanent roots in Warrnambool.

Originally from Maryborough, Ms Stevens moved to Warrnambool just over two years ago.

Since then, she has been through several moves, before finding a place at Southern Way’s residential home in Kerr Street.

Ms Stevens said it was a relief to find a long-term home in Southern Way’s supported accommodation.

“I’m happy living at Kerr Street and really like the people I live with,” she said.

She now keeps active and social courtesy of ten pin bowling, an exercise group, social club, netball and arts and crafts.

Before her move into the house, Ms Stevens was living in Southern Way’s emergency accommodation.

Southern Way chief executive officer Paul Lougheed said the relocation had given Ms Stevens much-needed safety, stability and security.

“She is now able to live in her new purpose-built group home, continue with her daily activities and build on friendships she has made,” he said.

Mr Lougheed said Ebony had adjusted well to living with four other residents with support from staff and continued to make positive steps.

Southern Way Direct Care is a not-for-profit disability service organisation that provides a range of services to people with a disability including supported accommodation, respite, day programs and flexible support in people’s home and in the community.

The not-for-profit organisation held its annual general meeting on Wednesday. Guest speaker was National Disability Insurance Scheme transition manager Bruce Argyle.

Mr Loughheed said the NDIS was the biggest change being faced by organisations like Southern Way. The roll-out in this region will begin in just over a year. 

“The NDIS is the right direction for disability services as people with a disability have the right to live the life they choose, to make the decisions they want and have control and choice with their funding,” he said.