Habitat for Humanity Nelson helps local people by providing a range of programmes aimed at building strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter.
Our programmes include Progressive Home Ownership, Affordable Rentals and a Home Repair Programme. Home Repair is targeted at low to moderate income whanau and individuals in need of urgent home repairs (currently under development).
The Need
Nelson and Tasman are now the second and third most expensive regions to live, respectively. Recent data indicates that most households are now paying 50 to 70 percent of their weekly income on rent or a mortgage. Thus leaving some families with less than $200 a week for other expenses. For many families, decent, affordable housing is becoming difficult to find. This is having a negative impact on the mental and emotional health and wellbeing of whanau and tamariki.
Furthermore, research indicates unaffordable housing strains mental health and affects quality and quantity of community interactions, trust, and social cohesion.
Many low-income families live in cold, damp and unhealthy homes. These poor conditions are linked to increased illnesses and infections, especially in young children. According to new research conducted by Otago University’s housing and health programme, poor housing is causing preventable injury and illness. This is estimated to cost New Zealand more than $145 million annually in accident compensation claims and hospital admissions.
Substandard housing, particularly crowded, cold, damp, and mouldy homes, can result in worse mental health and psychological distress for occupants. The flow-on effects from this unhealthy environment erodes families’ hope and self-worth and impairs children’s ability to succeed in school.
The Help
By partnering with individuals and families, we create affordable, healthy homes, reducing illness and providing hope and security for our community.
These are our two main housing programmes for Nelson Tasman region: