Government backs local homelessness support in Taranaki

Up to $580,000 in one-off Government funding will help New Plymouth’s Roderique Hope Trust and the YMCA Taranaki to support people experiencing homelessness into stable housing across the Taranaki region, Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka says. The funding will enable Roderique Hope Trust to lead the Taranaki Housing Pathways Initiative across New Plymouth and South Taranaki, with YMCA Taranaki delivering targeted outreach in New Plymouth. “Everyone deserves a safe place to call home. Our Government is delivering more homes while backing the frontline services that help people reach and remain in them,” Mr Potaka says. “Building more houses is essential, but housing alone will not end homelessness. People also need practical support to address the challenges that have left them without a secure home. “This investment will help local organisations reach people earlier, connect them with the right services and support them towards stable housing.” The initiative will support individuals and whānau who are sleeping rough, living in unsuitable accommodation or at immediate risk of homelessness. “Roderique Hope Trust knows its community and will bring together Iwi, councils, govern