Ministry of Social Development working with the community

The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) is continuing to offer a community presence to make sure people in Auckland without a place to stay are getting the help they need.

MSD staff have been placed at Te Puea Marae, and continue to support mobile squads of NGO workers who are actively engaging with homeless in the community.

Auckland Regional Commissioner Blair McKenzie says focusing on the help that is already available through Work and Income is the best way to get people the help they need, quickly.

“Local community organisations make up the mobile squads while we provide the support to make sure people are getting what they need – the help is there, and this is one way we can make sure those needing it are getting it.”

To date, 15 people living in cars have been approached. One person, who was not homeless, has chosen to engage further with MSD

Staff have also been stationed at the Auckland City Mission.

“We have been at the City Mission four nights this week, and engaged with 16 people – with 11 social housing assessments booked,” Blair McKenzie says.

“Our presence will continue next week and we will keep working with community groups including local Marae to get people the help they need.”

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