Liz, Shane and their children came to Monte Cecilia through Housing New Zealand after spending more than six months living in a three-bedroom home crammed with 22 people.

The family had originally lived in Opotiki, but had to leave after a family breakdown, moving to Auckland to stay with Shane’s parents. However, the home was far too crowded and provided no privacy. After being referred to Monte Cecila by Housing New Zealand, the Monte team was able to find them a community home in Papakura, where they have been living ever since.

“Due to a lot of health issues with both parents and some of the children, Monte was able to move them straight into community housing to save the stress of moving through transitional housing,” a Monte team member who works with the family says. “Liz has cancer and Shane suffers from a pinched nerve in his spine. Their children also suffer from epilepsy and other health issues such as asthma, so it was important we find somewhere safe for them.”

Shane says it was great to work with Monte Cecilia to find a house for his family, and Monte’s help furnishing their new home was also greatly appreciated. They are enjoying their own space and privacy, and their health issues are improving in the new environment.

“Working with Monte Cecilia gave us a good feeling and really relaxed us. It’s kind of like winning the Lotto after being in our previous situation, which was like rock bottom. We were pretty much sleeping in the sitting room for seven months and there was just one bathroom and toilet between 22 people, so you had to schedule your time.”

They’re now back on the road to independence, with the couple hoping to one day buy their own home that they can enjoy and be stress-free. Liz is preparing for surgery to treat her cancer, and Shane is undertaking a construction course to improve his employment prospects.