Vinnies to open housing project

The Society of St Vincent de Paul, Christchurch (Vinnies), in collaboration with St John of God Hauora Trust, will officially open its first social housing facility on Pavitt Street on 3 March.

Spokesperson Mike Daly says the opening is the conclusion of a four year project to fund raise and construct the seven apartments that will now accommodate vulnerable young families.

The special project has been overseen by the Ozanam Canterbury Charitable Trust. The full costs of the construction and furnishing of the new facilities has been met by generous donations, both large and small, and includes the donations of furniture from local businesses. This has enabled the Trust to fully furnish these apartments along with all necessary household appliances.

St John of God Hauora Trust will provide ‘wrap around services’ to these young families. This programme will enhance the overall wellbeing of the parents and their children including the development of strong independent living skills, improved parenting skills, greater sense of safety and belonging and improved health. These key outcomes are an important component of the HOPE Programme provided by St John of God Hauora Trust that will it is hoped, lead to employment, training, or education as well as improving the wellbeing of the parents.