Dunedin Council Considers Funding New Outreach for Homelessness

The Dunedin City Council is evaluating options to fund a new outreach service aimed at addressing homelessness in the area. A potential initial funding source is an overspend of $270,000, which could be allocated to the service. Alternatively, council members are considering delaying the establishment of this outreach until the next annual budget planning process or maintaining the current situation.

This discussion arises shortly after Catholic Social Services hired a housing navigator to assist rough sleepers and the broader homeless community in Dunedin, with financial backing from the Ministry of Social Development. This program commenced in September 2023 and is funded through June 2024.

If the council opts to expand its housing policy, the staffing for the outreach service could grow from one to three personnel, accompanied by a modest operating budget to facilitate the service’s delivery. In a previous meeting, the council had agreed in principle to create such a service, indicating that further information would be forthcoming in October.

A recent council report highlighted that an estimated 267 people in Otago faced severe housing deprivation last year. Many of these individuals are living without shelter, resorting to sleeping in cars, tents, or makeshift structures. The report noted a growing crisis that has become increasingly visible, stressing that current services lack the necessary resources to effectively tackle the issue.

The report also pointed out a significant shortfall in supported accommodation for young people. Melanie McNatty, general manager of Catholic Social Services, expressed her support for increased council involvement in combating homelessness. She stated, “Anything we can do as a city to strengthen working together and addressing homelessness is helpful.”

Steph Voight, southern commissioner for the Ministry of Social Development, emphasized the importance of collaboration in this effort. “When people sleep rough, they live hard lives,” she remarked. Voight acknowledged the complex and often difficult experiences that lead individuals to such situations, which can create barriers to engaging with government agencies.

The agency aims to leverage its established connections with the homeless population and local institutions to facilitate outreach. “Our goal is to reach people who are harder to reach and connect them with suitable housing options, healthcare, and social support services,” Voight added.

As the council deliberates on the future of its homelessness outreach service, the focus remains on developing effective strategies to provide support for those in need within the community. The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the lives of many individuals currently experiencing housing challenges in Dunedin.