New Zealand Council Of Christian Social Services
9 May, 2002

The injection of nearly $187 million in extra funding for housing initatives announced by the government today, has been welcomed by the New Zealand Council of Christian Social Services (NZCCSS).

‘This funding boost is a very positive and significant step towards addressing the continuing housing problems for low-income people’, said Campbell Roberts, NZCCSS Housing Spokesperson.

‘It has been necessary in order to reverse the past trend of selling state housing, a process that lead to the serious housing affordability problem that many now face.

NZCCSS Poverty Indicator research shows social services continue to deal with the detrimental impact of high housing costs on families and individuals. The latest results show that most households visiting foodbanks have less than $160 a week to spend after housing costs have been paid. Many spend over half their income on rent.

‘Housing is such an important part of people’s lives that when it is unaffordable, their quality of life suffers, said Campbell Roberts. ‘Any measure that tries to provide an increase in low cost, quality housing will not only greatly help a number of households but also reduce pressure on those agencies providing emergency assistance.

‘No one policy is going to eradicate poverty in NZ but it is pleasing to see that the link between housing, health and community needs is being taken seriously through these initiatives.

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