Te Wāhi Āwhina, a community support space in Manners Street, officially opened Tuesday 11 May as part of Wellington City Council’s commitment to The Pōneke Promise – a joint social contract launched in April with Greater Wellington Regional Council, the City’s hospitality industry, retailers, and Police.
Just over a month on it’s already making a difference in the area says Mayor Andy Foster.
“The city’s vulnerable communities now have easier access to agencies, and agencies have an accessible site to better provide their services to those who need it most – and offer support to local businesses and retailers when required.
“Te Wāhi Āwhina is used during the day and night as a base to help keep our city and our people safe. Some of the organisations and groups include Māori Wardens, Pasifika Patrollers, Work and Income, Hāpai Ake, NZ Police, Age Concern, Community Law, City Mission, Local Hosts, Salvation Army and Council staff. All the partners and prospective partner organisations.
“There have been many success stories from the on-site team already, including Anna who had recently featured in media as rough sleeping in a bus stop, who came in for a cup of tea – and ended up getting housed after a chat with the Salvation Army’s Pastor Joe.”