Published on 21st of November, 2024
Housing First Ōtautahi is providing a new Supportive Work Programme for kaewa (clients) in partnership with Te Whare Roimata.
The Supportive Work Programme draws on Te Whare Roimata’s previous experience of providing pre-employment work opportunities for long-term unemployed people. The programme offers kaewa a variety of meaningful work opportunities aimed at promoting work skills development and job readiness, as well as finding meaning and purpose during times without paid work.
Te Whare Roimata is one of six organisations that make up the Housing First Ōtautahi collaboration. They have supported Christchurch’s Inner City East and Māori communities for over 30 years through a wide-range of projects.
Jenny Smith, Te Whare Roimata Trust Coordinator, says the Supportive Work Programme has been beneficial for kaewa looking to begin their journey to employment and re-engage with their community.
“In the five months the programme has been going a stable crew has evolved who undertake a raft of work activities including section tidying, household removals, home maintenance, car grooming and supporting community groups with tasks,” says Jenny.
“Kaewa speak proudly of what they are doing, value being able to give to the community, welcome having structure to their day and enjoy being part of a supportive whānau that they now belong to. All have learnt new work skills and are learning positive ways to deal with old, harmful behaviour.”
Housing First Ōtautahi Pou Whakarae/Senior Manager Anania Tawhi says that the programme is a great opportunity for kaewa who have previously experienced long-term homelessness. “The Supportive Work Programme assists our kaewa on their journey to recovery, by allowing them to develop work-ready skills and grow their confidence and self-esteem through giving back to the community,” says Anania.
