Tuesday 4 December 2018

On Friday 14th December, the Wellington Night Shelter will hold its first ever Street Appeal since the organisation officially opened its doors in 1970. This appeal is to help raise funds for running costs and ongoing refurbishment to update the accommodation facilities that over 300 men access every year. The Wellington Night Shelter provides both housing and support for men on their journey from experiencing homelessness to transitioning into sustainable housing environments.

Kirsty Buggins, Director of the Wellington Night Shelter says “this appeal will help us to ensure that the quality of the accommodation that we offer to the men who live with us is of a quality that we would expect for ourselves, our whanau and our loved ones.”

Without adequate and stable accommodation that is of a quality that enhances well-being and mana, it is difficult to begin the journey of healing, growth and recovery needed to maintain a home and personal well-being. The Wellington Night Shelter provides a range of support that includes dormitory style crisis accommodation, transitional hostel style rooms, intensive case work and community based support.

As the only provider specialising in working with single men who are experiencing homelessness in the Wellington Region, the Wellington Night Shelter reaches full capacity most nights. This shows how vital it is that this service continues for Wellingtons most vulnerable men, many of whom present with complex mental health and addiction related needs.

Buggins asks “for the street appeal to make a real difference – we need around 100 people who are willing to volunteer one or two hours to collect for us on the day, as well people who can organise additional fundraising activities such as office collections and raffles”.

The Wellington Night Shelter are calling on the community to be collectors for their first Street Appeal and help provide a safe environment for men without a home. If you have a few hours to spare on Friday 14th December or an idea for a fundraising activity, please contact Mel Keith, Community Fundraiser Coordinator 027 806 1999 or email mel@wellingtonnightshelter.org.nz.

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