At De Paul House we witness the change in families when they finally have a safe place to rest after the turmoil and disruption of facing homelessness. No one chooses homelessness, it is a complex series of events, mostly unexpected.
De Paul House aims to provide welcoming, safe, homely accommodation and excellent social work support to guide the family back into a
stable housing solution.
A celebration in June of the successful partnership between De Paul House and the Auckland Catholic Diocese saw Bishop Stephen Lowe bless 10 new homes. In the 6 months since they opened, 13 families with 18 adults and 30 children have been housed comfortably and safely at these properties.
Five have since moved on to their own home and have received support from De Paul House with the practical necessities essential to furnish their own home and with social work advocacy. Families have spoken of feeling overwhelmed by the quality of these new homes and the support of the De Paul House team.
L-R Brendan Fitzgerald, Chairperson, Hon. Poto
Williams, Bishop Stephen Lowe, Jan Rutledge, GM, Shanan Halbert MP
"I am very very happy, my son is very happy. The house is so nice and clean. The lady (social worker) who look after us is so lovely and very helpful. I feel like a weight has lifted off my shoulder."
"I know this is the beginning of healing - it’s so peaceful here.”
Jenny* came to De Paul House after escaping a very violent marriage. For most of her married life she had been controlled and abused by her partner.
Jenny had began studying for a degree but due to the trauma and upheaval of her family life, often missed classes and exams. When
she finally made the break, had stable housing for her family and the support of a De Paul House social worker, Jenny decided to
restart her studies.
12 months later she is getting A+ grades, has been in a work placement and has received an offer of a job when she graduates later this
year. This brave and tenacious mother is setting a wonderful example to her children. Her son has chosen to take on an apprenticeship
and her daughter is at university studying social work. Her daughter even asked her mum “How do I get A+ grades like you mum?”
None of this would have happened without affordable, secure housing and the desire to make the move to being independent. Jenny believed in building a better life and is a great role model to her children.
Kia kaha Mana Wahine!
Finally, we are very proud to announce that Jan Rutledge, our General Manager, was awarded the Queen Service Medal (QSM) in the New Year
Honours.
Jan and her family attended the investiture at Government House in June. Jan says, "This honour is for all those connected and
supporting De Paul House – staff, board, volunteers, supporters and donors – in recognition of the excellent service provided to homeless
families."
Dame Cindy Kiro Governor General with Jan Rutledge, General Manager.
