Malachi was referred to StepStones by his Durham Children’s Aid Society worker, and it was during a period of transition in his life. A student-athlete at Durham College, Malachi had been balancing his studies and his love of basketball when an injury forced him to step back. As his grades were impacted, he ultimately decided to drop out of school and, no longer enrolled, he knew that he could not stay in residence for much longer. He needed to move somewhere more affordable off campus.
Malachi’s journey hasn’t gone the way he once imagined. His love for basketball runs deep, so the injury that forced him to leave school wasn’t just physically painful—it meant stepping away from a dream of playing basketball in post-secondary and facing the unknown. It would’ve been easy to give up, to feel angry or defeated. But Malachi chose a different path. He met change with courage and humility, adapting to his new reality with grace. His attitude is a reminder that life rarely unfolds according to plan—but how we respond can define the future we build.
That’s when StepStones stepped in. With support from his Connections Coordinator, Malachi was able to find affordable housing in Oshawa—sharing a place with his best friend from church. With support from his Connections Coordinator and having a strong head for budgeting and managing his money, he’s been able to maintain stability and independence. StepStones worked closely with Malachi to refine his resume and explore long-term job options. Over coffee at Tim Hortons, Malachi and his Connections Coordinator searched for feasible opportunities—and not long after, Malachi landed a seasonal job in hedge trimming and landscaping. It’s been a chance to build his resume, earn steady income, and save toward future goals. He’s motivated, reliable, and focused on making the most of each opportunity.
Behind Malachi’s calm and friendly demeanor is someone who cares deeply about the people in his life. That care can sometimes weigh on him—when loved ones are struggling, Malachi tends to internalize their pain and put his own plans on pause. But through it all, he remains hopeful for a better future. In Malachi, we see someone who doesn’t just endure life’s shifts but learns and grows from them. He’s open to advice, connected to his support systems, and determined to keep moving forward. Although living in Oshawa, far from our team in Toronto, Malachi still manages to keep close ties with his Connections Coordinator and is always ready to talk. A shared love for soccer helped spark their connection, but it’s Malachi’s honesty, drive, and thoughtful outlook that have made their conversations meaningful.
Right now, school is on hold—but his Connections Coordinator continues to encourage him, offering patience and space while Malachi focuses on saving money and building a life, he’s proud of. He’s living in a place that’s affordable, planning for the summer, and thinking ahead.
Malachi isn’t just looking for stability—he’s building it.
