Removing the barriers

Published on 28th of September, 2017

Families in our community with mental health issues find it hard to get the support that they need. The Christchurch Methodist Mission is helping to remove the barriers they face.

Finding a warm, affordable and secure home is very difficult for families on low incomes. This is made even more difficult if the family is impacted by mental health issues. Landlords will often choose to let their properties to tenants that appear less 'risky'.

The Christchurch Methodist Mission (CMM) has seen the struggle that many of these families have finding an affordable home in the rental market. We have advocated on their behalf with private landlords and provided support where possible. Our three new houses that are being built in Hornby will remove the housing barrier for three families impacted by mental health issues. The houses will be ready early next year and will provide a warm, affordable and secure home for these and other families in the years to come.

The housing barrier is not just isolated to Christchurch and other cities. The acute shortage of affordable housing in Blenheim is severely impacting the mental health of those who are without a home. CMM's emergency housing initiative in this community is starting to reduce the barriers that homeless individuals and families face securing long-term tenancies.

Anxiety, ADHD and other mental health issues have impacted children in Christchurch post-earthquakes. The health system has been overwhelmed by the demand and those needing help often face a long wait for support. A new partnership with the Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) will see CMM work with 100 children with significant mental health issues that are on the CDHB waiting list.

We can make a difference in the lives of families impacted by mental health issues through the generosity of our supportive community. Please donate to our Spring Appeal or consider remembering the Christchurch Methodist Mission in your Will. Your support will help those in need this Spring. 

Ngā mihi nui,

Jill Hawkey
Executive Director