World Homeless Day 2024: A Community United in Hope

This event brought together social service providers and the community in a show of solidarity with our street whānau.

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown highlighted the need for systemic change stating, “It’s disappointing that New Zealand's cradle-to-grave social welfare system seems to be letting us down. We aren’t going to arrest our way out of homelessness.” His words echoed the urgent call for a compassionate approach to the issue.

Auckland MP and co-leader of the Green Party Chlöe Swarbrick emphasised the importance of collective effort in driving change. “No one person changes the world alone. It is going to take all of us working together in the interests of justice,” she said, inspiring the crowd to come together in unity and love.

Genevieve Sage, a member of the Waitematā Local Board, highlighted the role of education and job opportunities in breaking the cycle of homelessness. Haehaetu Barrett, Chief Executive of Lifewise, lauded the relentless efforts of outreach teams. “This is hard mahi, and the government needs to hear our voices. They need to know that a brutal approach won’t stop us,” Barrett affirmed.

The event was a tapestry of joyful moments, with activities like haircuts, singing and face painting for children. The boil-up by the Merge Café team was a crowd favourite, embodying the warmth and community spirit of the day.

Auckland businesses were extremely generous; Kiwiharvest, Nandos, Lifewise Merge Cafe, Rescue Kitchen, Kindness Collective, Starbucks, Fairfood, Sunday Blessings, and Woolworths provided free food. Orange Sky offered showers and laundry services, and Brown Pride provided haircuts.

Common Equal distributed clothing, and Hirepool offered free generators and fencing, and discounts on portaloos. Carlton Party Hire contributed BBQs, beanbags, and gazebos. Warehouse Newmarket printed and framed photos for a whānau exhibition, and St Patrick’s Cathedral generously shared their square and water supply.

Despite a last-minute technical issue with Speedy Signs’ LED display, the gesture was appreciated. The Auckland Council Waitemata Local Board played a vital role, arranging the venue and covering logistical costs essential for the event’s success.

At Lifewise, business community support was pivotal. Ed Ackman, a Lifewise donor, developed an ad campaign at no cost, while Dynamo, part of the Omnicom group, secured media packages from Stuff, Phantom Street Poster, and OOH! Media. Artists Mike Weston and Otis Frizzell sold limited edition “HOME” prints, donating half their proceeds to Lifewise. Fred Soar of SCG printed posters designed by Ed Ackman, enhancing awareness of homelessness and Lifewise.

World Homeless Day 2024 in Auckland was not just an event; it was a testament to the power of community, generosity and an unwavering commitment to a future where everyone has a place to call home.