More evidence of the growing number of homelessness

The New Zealand Coalition to End Homelessness (NZCEH) supports calls to action for more social housing and affordable housing in Christchurch. Following the earthquakes women and children desperately seeking emergency housing have reached levels never seen before – as highlighted this year by the plight of Billy- Jean Rangihuna, mother of three living in a leaky caravan. Last year, the Canterbury District Health Board provided further evidence that homelessness is a growing issue across the country which continues unabated.

“These are some of our most vulnerable people in our community and they are being let down. There needs to be a joint strategic response by government, council and social agencies to deal with this situation,” says Corie Haddock, Tangata Tiriti Co-chair of NZCEH. ‘Action needs to be taken to ensure that our most in need are given the support and resources required to maintain their health and wellbeing’.

Dr Shiloh Groot, Tangata Whenua Co-Chair of NZCEH stated “Street homelessness represents only the tip of the iceberg … just around the corner there are many thousands more who are little more than one domestic crisis away from being on the streets. This is clearly what we are seeing in Christchurch.”

The NZCEH for the upcoming election will be hosting a Political Panel end of June to determine how each Party will address the growing issue of homelessness.

ENDS

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