Back to top anchor
Back to content top anchor

Recent success in the mission to end homelessness in the city centre

News story
Friday 29 Jun 2018

Homelessness continues to be a challenge for Auckland and for the city centre, but we're pleased to report that there are some good results being achieved to address it.

The Housing First programme, delivered in the city centre as a partnership between Lifewise and Auckland City Mission, last week released the results it's achieved since early 2017, when it started. Housing First has helped 44 people experiencing chronic homelessness in the city centre into permanent housing to date, with 38 of these people currently in housing. These numbers are particularly positive in light of the fact that the average participant had spent 14 years on the streets - this programme is making a difference to people with a long history of homelessness. 

There has been positive news in recent weeks for Auckland City Mission's HomeGround development, too, with a $16.7 million contribution from the Government allowing additional drug and alcohol addiction treatment facilities within the centre. With $66 million now committed for the $85 million project, the build is able to begin. Demolition of the existing buildings is set to begin in September. A campaign to raise the balance of funds is due to launch soon.  

Auckland Council has also made a commitment to addressing homelessness by launching an Auckland Homeless Count to gather robust data on the size and nature of homelessness. The first ever region-wide count will be held on Monday 17 September and include a survey and tally of those living without shelter.

Auckland Council and Housing First are looking for volunteers to be part of the count - if this is something you would like to be part of, you can register here.

Find out more about what's being done to end homelessness in the city centre here.