My Account
Homebuilders in Warkworth is shining a light on homelessness and calling on the community to help struggling families this winter.
The family support service says the increase in homelessness in the past two years is the worst in its 28 year history.
Coordinator Maria Collins has worked with 40 people in some form of homelessness in the past year. About half are families and the rest are single people or elderly, with families living in cars and garages and people sleeping on park benches, churches and on the Homebuilders’ porch.
Ms Collins says a lack of affordable accommodation and an increase in living costs, including food and petrol, have pushed many people beyond their means. She says along with donations and support, people need understanding.
“They’ve exhausted every resource they possibly can. They are the best budgeters I’ve ever met and have no money to waste,” Ms Collins says.
Homebuilders is encouraging struggling families to get in touch to access support and entitlements for accommodation supplements. They are also calling on the community to donate clothing, school uniforms, blankets, food and accommodation.
Presbyterian Foodlink coordinator Roger Mackay says food parcels increased last year to 280, up from 218 the previous year, although the number often fluctuates. The main trend was more people or multiple families living in each household, with deliveries to 440 adults and 510 children last year. He says when Foodlink started 25 years ago the first reaction was that it was not needed, but the demand proved otherwise.
“In Rodney, the challenges are well hidden. We don’t tend to see people living on the streets like you do in the city so it’s not so obvious,” Mr Mackay says.
He says the community is caring and generous, and responds when they know there is a need.
“For example, the Christmas drive generates another 175 parcels.”
Ms Collins agrees that the community is generous, from knitters donating blankets to offers of rooms or self-contained studios for affordable rent or board.
She says there are different states of homelessness, and for some that means living with other family members or friends, but it is not a long-term solution.
Some have been relocated out of the area for cheaper accommodation, but she says it can be detrimental to their wellbeing by losing support and community networks, including help with caregiving.
Mr Mackay says living in a community is more than just having a roof over your head and links to family, schools, churches and sports clubs are important relationships.
Food Rescue has delivered 17 tonnes of food in the area since July last year, and receives daily donations from Warkworth New World and Countdown. Donate food or volunteer at Food Rescue by contacting Peter Henderson on 027 477 6519.
Info: Access or offer support at homebuildersfs.org or 425 7048.
