- Hon Tama Potaka
More support is on the way for people experiencing homelessness, with the Government strengthening local services in Lower Hutt, Hamilton, Upper Hutt and Whangārei, says Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka.
The more than $1 million investment will boost existing short-term homelessness services in Lower Hutt and establish new services in Hamilton, Upper Hutt and Whangārei.
"Homelessness has been a problem in New Zealand for decades. We have a broken housing system that is more severe in challenging economic times.
"Earlier this year, we announced an additional $14.5 million for short-term actions to support people sleeping rough.
"That funding expanded outreach and support services across New Zealand, while continuing proven initiatives already helping people in our main centres.
"This latest investment builds on that work. It will mean more people sleeping rough can be reached, supported and connected with a pathway into stable housing.
"These communities have unmet need and local providers ready to get help to people quickly."
"We have already seen the difference these services can make when people are connected quickly with accommodation and the support they need.
"We know homelessness goes beyond just a house. It can involve challenges with health, employment, addiction, family relationships or access to services.
"Local organisations understand their communities and know how to reach people who may otherwise fall through the gaps.
"This funding backs those frontline providers to deliver practical support and improve outcomes for individuals and whānau.
"Our Government is delivering more homes and backing the local services that help people move off the streets and into stable housing," Mr Potaka says.
