A new papakāinga-model transitional housing facility for young parents has opened in Henderson, west Auckland — offering midwifery, immunisations, and social support alongside a home.
A new transitional housing facility was opened today in Henderson, west Auckland.
Established by E Tipu e Rea Whānau Services, the housing facility is based on a papakāinga model and caters for homeless young māmā and couples who have or are expecting children.
Chief executive Zoe Witika-Hawke (Ngāti Hako, Ngāti Pāoa) says the homes provide more than shelter. The facility includes midwifery, childhood immunisations, tamariki ora, social support and advocacy assistance for residents accessing social benefits.
Witika-Hawke emphasises that building trust with residents has been essential: “they have been hurt by other services.” She notes that staff witness the dire housing situation for whānau in Aotearoa, and recognises the particular challenges young parents face securing accommodation for their families.