New exhibition shines light on homelessness

A new exhibition at Tūranga is inviting people to see the world through the eyes of a homeless person.

The World Homeless Day Photovoice exhibition features photos taken by a group of individuals currently experiencing homelessness in Ōtautahi, depicting their stories and the reality of life living on the street.

The exhibition has been organised by Housing First Ōtautahi.

Housing First Ōtautahi supports people who have been long-term homeless by helping them access housing and by providing wrap-around support services. Since 2018, it has helped to house 248 individuals in Ōtautahi.

“Too often people associate harmful stereotypes with a person sleeping on the street, without understanding the circumstances that have led to them being there,’’ says Housing First Otautahi Manager Nic Fleming.

“Research shows we’re all just two steps away from homelessness. If you lost your job and house tomorrow, what would you do? With this exhibition, Housing First Ōtautahi hopes to bridge the gap of understanding between the public and people sleeping rough on the streets.’’

The exhibition will be open to view 8am to 8pm from Tuesday 11 October to Friday 14 October in Spark Place, which is on the ground floor of Tūranga. Housing First Ōtautahi staff will be onsite from 9am to 3pm to share information about homelessness issues in Ōtautahi and to answer questions.