Key Takeaways:
- The number of people seeking help from social service providers in Southland has increased, with a notable rise in middle-income families struggling to make ends meet.
- Rising rent and power costs are major contributors to the growing number of people seeking assistance.
- Homelessness is a significant issue in the region, with an estimated 50-60 people living on the streets or in cars.
- The closure of emergency housing motels and facilities has exacerbated the problem, leaving many without access to basic necessities like showers and toilets.
- Children are also being affected, with a 60% increase in food distribution to schools and a 47% rise in the need for jackets.
- The importance of companionship, particularly for those living in poverty or homelessness, cannot be overstated, with many people prioritizing their pets over securing a rental property.
Introduction to the Issue
The social service providers in Southland are sounding the alarm about the increasing number of people struggling to make ends meet. The Salvation Army Invercargill community ministries manager, Cathy Strong, has reported a significant rise in new families seeking help, including a notable increase in middle-income families. Over a one-week period, more than 30 new families reached out for assistance, highlighting the severity of the issue. Strong described the situation as "shocking" and attributed the rise in numbers to the escalating cost of living, particularly rising rent and power costs.
The Struggle is Real
The struggles faced by the people of Southland are multifaceted. Rising rent and power costs are major contributors to the growing number of people seeking assistance. Many are forced to choose between paying their bills and putting food on the table. The Salvation Army estimates that about 50-60 people in Invercargill are homeless, including those living in cars. The recent extreme weather has made life even harder for these individuals, with some shelters being unable to provide adequate protection from the elements. Major Murray Sanson of the Salvation Army criticized the banks for not doing enough to support people, stating that the economy is "geared up against the poor."
The Impact on Children
The cost-of-living struggle is not limited to adults; children are also being affected. KidsCan founder and chief executive Dame Julie Chapman reported a 60% increase in food distribution to schools in Invercargill and wider Southland since the start of the year. The need for jackets in the region has also risen by 47% compared to last year. Chapman’s organization has witnessed a nationwide issue, with children taking turns to share shoes. The situation is dire, with many households having little to no buffer against unexpected bills or price rises. Chapman emphasized that for many people, they are just a payday away from being plunged into poverty.
The Importance of Companionship
In discussing the city’s most vulnerable, Strong and Sanson highlighted the nuance of owning a pet. For many people, their pets are their only source of companionship and comfort. Sanson noted that some people are unable to secure a rental property because they have a dog, but they would rather live in a car than give up their pet. Strong added that pets have saved people, providing them with a sense of purpose and companionship. The importance of companionship, particularly for those living in poverty or homelessness, cannot be overstated.
The Role of the Council
The Invercargill City Council has been working to address the issue of homelessness in the region. Earlier this year, the council voted to close the Wachner Place toilet and shower facility to save costs, but the decision was ultimately delayed due to the lack of alternative facilities. The council is working on a contract to continue operating the facility until 31 March 2026. Council group manager Trudie Hurst acknowledged that homelessness is a diverse term that covers a broad range of experiences, making it difficult to get an accurate estimate of the number of people affected. The council is working with the Southland Community Housing Network to explore options for an emergency night shelter in the city.
Conclusion
The situation in Southland is dire, with many people struggling to make ends meet. The rising cost of living, homelessness, and lack of access to basic necessities like showers and toilets are just some of the issues at play. The importance of companionship, particularly for those living in poverty or homelessness, cannot be overstated. It is essential that the community comes together to address these issues and provide support to those in need. The social service providers, council, and community organizations must work together to find solutions to these complex problems and ensure that everyone has access to the basic necessities of life.
