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As winter approaches New Zealand, the Oceanic country’s government is taking strides to get their homeless population off the streets and into warm, more comfortable shelters. Although the problem affects thousands of people - a figure hovering around 40,000 for the country’s 4.7 million people population - the country’s efforts are also increasing in an effort to keep citizens safe and off the streets.
Last Friday, Housing Minister Phil Twyford and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced their plan; a $100 million emergency housing package to provide much-needed relief during the upcoming colder months.
“We’re pulling out all the stops to support people in need and urgently increase housing supply this winter,” Twyford said. He also added that everyone deserves to “find warm, dry, housing this winter.”
In the southern hemisphere, winter begins June 1, so the government has asked people with extra space or additional housing to take in those in need, in the hopes that altruistic citizens will pull together and help their fellow neighbors.
The ask involves spaces such as private rental properties, seasonal workers quarters, Maori meeting houses, and motor camps, any space that could offer refugee from the cold weather. In a Facebook live video, Ardern promised that the government would work those willing to offer up their spaces and make the process as smooth and easy as possible for everyone involved.
She added that the government “couldn’t stand by and see people in cars or completely unsuitable housing.” Both the Housing and Prime Minister agreed that this winter, everyone should have a comforting and warm escape from the cold.
They’re not the only ones doing their part to make communities safer. Service provider Housing New Zealand is also lending a hand to help with the initiative.
CEO Scott Figenshow believes that all strong communities provide their residents with “quality and healthy homes,” an ideal the government, its citizens, and various organizations are working towards to create a brighter future for everyone.
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