A home for hope

In a quiet corner of Blenheim, legal executive Cindy Thom is quietly changing lives. By day she works in law, but by night, and often at very short notice, she opens her home to teenagers in urgent need of shelter, safety, and something even more powerful: kindness without condition.

Words: Adrienne Matthews

Cindy’s journey into the role of emergency caregiver began from a place of personal heartbreak. In her early twenties, she tragically lost her only child and discovered she would not be able to have children of her own. “It was devastating,” she recalls, “but I knew I had to carry on.”

Answering the call

When she moved to Blenheim in 2017 to be closer to her sister and nieces, Cindy saw a new opportunity. “My sister messaged me to say that Oranga Tamariki were looking for caregivers. “Something just clicked and I realised I still had the capacity to mother, just in a different way.”

Since then, Cindy has provided emergency and respite care for teenagers aged 10 to 17. Her role involves offering short-term shelter for youth who need a safe place, sometimes for just one night, sometimes for longer, until a more permanent solution can be found. This year, her commitment was nationally recognised by an Excellence in Foster Care Award, one of just ten recipients across New Zealand.

Providing shelter and safety

“I chose emergency care because that’s where the need is greatest,” says Cindy. “Some of the teens arrive late at night with nothing but the clothes they’re wearing. I make sure they have what they need: a warm bed, a shower, food, Wi-Fi, and most importantly, someone who makes them feel safe.”

The teenagers are greeted not just by Cindy and her partner, but by four friendly and enthusiastic dogs who help break the ice. “It’s amazing how the dogs help
lower the kids’ guard,” she smiles. “Even if they arrive upset or scared, the dogs bring a bit of joy right away.”

Though the work can be emotionally taxing, Cindy receives strong support from Oranga Tamariki, local police officers, and her employer, who accommodates her flexible schedule when emergencies arise. “The social workers are amazing. The care and respect they show for these kids is inspiring, and I’m so grateful for their support.” Cindy takes each experience as a chance to offer a moment of respite.

“Sometimes they only stay a night. I get them set up with pyjamas, toiletries, a hot drink, and let them rest. In the morning, they’re off again but even in that short time, they get a message that someone cares.”

Support, connection, and community

Many teens are delivered by the police after having been referred by Oranga Tamariki, having experienced serious disruption at home. Some are fleeing unsafe environments; others simply need a break to reset.

“There’s no ‘typical’ teen,” she explains. “They’ve each got their own story. Some come back more than once, and it’s lovely when they remember me and feel comfortable returning.”

One 16-year-old girl stayed with Cindy on and off for years from the age of 12. “We’ve stayed in contact and that kind of connection is really special.”

Outside of her home, Cindy is an advocate for youth support spaces like MySpace, a local centre where teens can hang out, feel safe, and be themselves. “A lot of the kids I care for go there. It gives them stability, connection, and something to look forward to.”

Lessons learned and the rewards of care

Despite the emotional complexity of the role, Cindy says caregiving in this way has changed her for the better. “I’m more patient. I used to be more judgmental without even realising it, but these kids have taught me to see beyond appearances, to understand trauma and meet people where they are.”

She has undergone extensive training provided by Oranga Tamariki, including courses on trauma-informed care, foetal alcohol syndrome and behavioural challenges. “The more I learn, the better I can support them. Knowledge gives you the tools to help.”

Cindy encourages other people to consider volunteering, even if it’s initially outside their comfort zone. “There’s always support. You’re not alone and honestly, the rewards are enormous.

Knowing you’ve helped a young person feel seen, safe, and respected, even for a short time, is something you carry with you with a sense of joy.”

So, what do today’s teenagers need most from adults? “Space, respect and someone who listens,” Cindy says without hesitation. “When a teen walks through my door, their room becomes their sanctuary. We set house rules, but I also tell them they’re part of my family while they’re here.”

Whether it’s a warm meal, a hot shower, or a gentle welcome from a pack of dogs, Cindy Thom offers something that is all too rare for the teens who come into her care: a brief but heartfelt reminder that they matter.