Koinonia Community Housing Trust: Providing quality and secure rental housing for those on low incomes.
Wellington
It's no secret that NZ is experiencing its biggest housing crisis ever. House prices have gone through the roof; rents are following a similar line. There is a chronic shortage of housing and much of the stock available is in poor condition. Many landlords are selling up – cashing in on the rise in values, leaving tenants facing uncertain futures. Homelessness is at an all-time high, and the reduced government social housing is failing dismally to keep up with demand. Some people are making a lot of money out of the crisis but a whole lot more are suffering because of unaffordability, lack of options, insecure tenure and unhealthy housing.
In response to this, a number of us have banded together and formed a charitable housing trust (called Koinonia) to buy an unused church building in Naenae, Hutt City. We've demolished the building and have just begun building five units on the land - two 2 bdrms and three 1 bdrms. It's a leap of faith on our part - the cost of the project is $1.1 million - but we believe that local communities have an important role to play in fixing the crisis. We can't just leave it all to the government.
Our vision is providing warm, dry, secure, and affordable housing for people on low incomes around the Wellington region. We call this “community housing” – that is, rental accommodation that is affordable, has secure tenure, and is located in a supportive community. It’s target tenancies are people who struggle to find (and retain) suitable accommodation. They may include super annuitants, refugees, new immigrants, ex-prisoners, solo parents, and others who need a stable, supportive, safe, and affordable home.
However, we need help. We've managed to raise around $220k through our own resources and connections. But in order for the project to be sustainable we require a further $180k minimum. The remainder of the cost will be covered by a mortgage. And the more we raise, the sooner we can begin another build.
Can you help us? We're looking for partners - people who believe in our vision and are prepared to be part of making it happen. No gift is too small, no gift is too big! Whether it's $50 or $5000, we'll be grateful for whatever you can contribute. And because we're a charity, your donation will be eligible for a tax rebate certificate. That means if you give $150 you'll get $50 back at the end of the tax year!
It's no coincidence that our Givealittle campaign is in the month before Christmas. We think Christmas is the perfect time for giving - and particularly to those who need a hand-up. Why not join us on this little adventure?
Koinonia is committed to providing quality rental accomodation for low income households.
All monies given will go towards the Seddon St, Naenae build.
Koinonia is a registered charity. CC55275
Thanks very much for your support.
Thanks very much for your support of this project.
Awesome and generous support of the project, Ross. Thanks - on behalf of those who will benefit.
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