Head to MP for WINZ assistance

If you are having trouble finding accommodation through Work and Income then head to my office says MP for Taupo Louise Upston.

Upston, whose Taupo office is located at 67 Paora Hapi Street, said the lack of emergency accommodation has become an issue in Taupo and anyone who is in a crisis, and has had no luck with Work and Income can speak to her.

With people living in cars becoming a more common sight, and pleas for urgent accommodation on the Taupo to Rent page, there could be a few knocks at the doors.

‘‘I think it’s fair to say emergency housing has been a challenge in Taupo for a little while,’’ Upston said.

‘‘The town has people who have come out of prison and which provides a unique element to town than other areas.’’

Upston said she will be speaking to the Minister for Social Housing Paula Bennett to discuss Taupo’s unique challenges when it comes to emergency accommodation.

The Government announced it will pay for 3000 emergency housing places across the country each year after allocating $41.1 million over the next four years.

‘‘Emergency housing provides an essential safety net for people in crisis, and is an opportunity to intervene and support families with complex needs,’’ Bennett said.

‘‘Our Government made a commitment to provide better access to emergency housing for our most vulnerable citizens.

‘‘Emergency housing providers told us accessing funding to provide these places was difficult so now, for the first time, emergency housing will have ongoing, dedicated funding.’’

Emergency accommodation volunteer Renee Gray has been calling for a night shelter to be constructed in Taupo but Upston is not sure how that money will be allocated

‘‘When you look at building a night shelter that might work for a single person but a mother with children escaping family violence – it is not that straight forward,’’ Upston said.

‘‘That funding will be spread around the country and it is too early to say how it will be allocated.’’