Lifewise - tackling homelessness
Lifewise is using multiple approaches to tackle the problems of homelessness in central Auckland, pulling together whatever agencies are required to form a pathway to housing and inclusion.
TrustLine newsletter, March 2011
Its hub model creates the glue that binds together a range of client support services in a comprehensive collaboration that aims to solve street homelessness in the city.
As part of its integrated approach, Lifewise promotes intensive case management, providing a one-stop-shop where a range of social support agencies, including government departments, can develop multi-agency case management strategies, arrange crisis accommodation, or other intervention options.
The most visual element of its strategy is The Merge Café, part of the Hub on Karangahape Road, which caters for both homeless people and office workers in the surrounding businesses. By subsidising some of the costs, Merge provides low-cost food, but still maintains a regular café atmosphere. This creates choice, something often denied homeless people, as well as opportunities for community integration in a place where everyone can rub shoulders as equals. With help from AUT, The Merge Café will also teach clients hospitality and catering skills that could lead on to new jobs.
Lifewise also runs the Auckland Night Shelter, supports women and young people who are living on the streets. More than 60% of its clients Māori and its whanau reconnection programme helps people build bridges back to their cultural roots.
Last year Lifewise also began a collaboration with the Auckland District Court that has resulted in a Special Circumstances court being set up in the city. The court will specialise in dealing with homeless offenders and will have the resources to cope with the complex mental health and addiction problems many face.
- In 2010 a $500,000 grant from ASB Community Trust helped Lifewise develop its hub project.