8 December 2004

Council takes up leadership role in addressing homelessness

Auckland City’s Community Development and Equity Committee has moved to establish a forum to take action on homelessness and associated social issues in the city.

“It’s easy to judge homelessness by the individuals we see on the city’s streets,” says Councillor Cathy Casey, chairperson, Community Development and Equity Committee.

“Homelessness and the social issues that surround it affect whole families and hit at the heart of our communities. We need to work with others to solve this issue, not just shift it.”

The forum will facilitate meetings with agencies working with the homelessness issue, identify any gaps and help co-ordinate solutions that meet the needs of the community.

“Currently the role of the council in this issue is undefined. We want to take an active leadership role in alleviating homelessness in the city.

“The forum is a chance to find out what and where the need is, and then how we can help resolve the issue,” says Dr Casey.

The forum, named the Auckland Housing Forum, will first meet in February 2005.

ENDS

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