Retired Couple Opens Doors Of Hope

Quick Smiles:

• Retired couple transforms old dorm into a new beginning for women in need
• Community rallies with donations and heartwarming support
• Blue Sky House aims to bring light to those emerging from hard times

In Hobart, Australia, Richard and Jan Gould are making a remarkable difference in the lives of women who need it most. After moving from Sydney three years ago, the couple opened their short-stay rental to women facing housing challenges. Many guests were older women, each with stories that left a lasting impression.

“It opened our eyes to how big the housing crisis was,” said Mr. Gould, reflecting on the challenges many older women face. He noticed how these women are often left out by the usual housing programs, and he wanted to do something meaningful to help.

Inspired to act, Richard and Jan recently purchased a former student dormitory, featuring ten bedrooms and five bathrooms. Their vision is for this spacious house to become Blue Sky House—a sanctuary where up to ten older women can find both affordability and dignity.

“It will take them out of what is a very dark place and bring them into an area we are calling Blue Sky,” Mr. Gould shared, highlighting the hopeful outlook he and his wife want for their new residents.

Jan added, “We want people to be glad to come home.”

The Goulds are working tirelessly to ready the house for its first tenants, aiming for a welcoming opening in October. They’re gathering gently used furniture and building local partnerships to help see their ambitious plan through. The response has been uplifting—members from the Good Karma Network are volunteering time and resources, and support keeps growing.

For the couple, generosity is about action. “At the end of the day, it’s not what you have,” said Mr. Gould, “it’s what you do with what you’ve got.”

The Goulds’ story is a shining example of compassion and community. Blue Sky House stands as a beacon of hope, proving that with open hearts and a little help from friends, brighter days are always possible.

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