What’s New

Monte’s 25 this month
Monte Cecilia Housing Trust, which provides emergency housing to families in South Auckland and Waitakere, celebrates its first quarter of a century this month.

It’s 25 years ago since a group of Sisters of Mercy and Marist Brothers moved into Monte Cecilia House in Hillsborough, at the request of the St Vincent de Paul Society, to work with its members in providing emergency housing for homeless families in Auckland.

Representatives of the two religious congregations moved into the house, which had been offered rent-free by Bishop John Mackey, on 4 October 1982. The first to be housed was a family of Irish migrants, followed by Polish refugees, some of whom had jumped ship.

Today the present Trust, established in 2005 by Bishop Pat Dunn on behalf of the Auckland Catholic diocese, operates from its current base in Windrush Close, Mangere. Trust executive David Zussman says the 25th anniversary is an important milestone.

“ Monte has made an enormous contribution to the success of many families who needed some support when they were faced with a housing crisis,” said Mr Zussman.

“ Sadly, there is still a significant need for this work, as housing affordability becomes a pressing issue for increasing numbers of New Zealanders.”

“ On behalf of the Trust, I want to thank all those who have played a part in its success.”

New homes for six families
With the recent purchase of two houses in South Auckland and another four in Waitakere City, Monte Cecilia Housing Trust is able to house an additional six families.

The houses have been bought by Monte with a combination of grants and loans from Housing New Zealand and the ASB Community Trust.

Monte’s trust executive, David Zussman is delighted with the six three-bedroom houses. “What a great way for Monte to celebrate 25 years of housing advocacy and working for justice!”

The purchase means that Monte can offer tenancies for up to two years to low-income families, who will pay a rental that is $80 a week less than current market rates.

The families will be supported throughout their tenancy and helped to find long-term sustainable housing at the end of their time with Monte.

The six houses are in addition to the emergency housing provided to 13 families from the Trust’s centre in Mangere, and to the support offered each month to around 70 families living in the community.