Social housing unit destroyed in fire

Maureen is a 66 year old mother, friend to many, and has been a support worker in Tawa for 8 years caring for many elderly and injured across Tawa. Maureen has supported the very old to the very recently injured, those who could not care for themselves have all found a friend in Maureen.

On Wednesday 7th September Maureen returned home to find her road closed off, fire engines surrounding her home and flames burning through the attached housing unit.

Like many in the aged care line of work Maureen does not earn a lot of money, made worse by the fact she has gone without pay since injuring her back at work at the end of July and still waiting for the ACC claim to come through, Maureen was unable to afford any insurance.

The fire has been a heavy blow, although the fire damage is minimal the smoke and water damaged has destroyed almost every piece of furniture in the house. Maureen has no couch to rest on, no drawers to put her remaining clothes, and left with a bed smelling of burnt plastic and smoke.

Maureen and her dog Teddy luckily were not in the home when it happened, they are currently staying at her sons and my place in Tawa. Maureen is very appreciative of the Tawa fire brigade whose effort has allowed her to keep many of her most precious memories.

Te Āhuru Mōwai will hopefully find Maureen a place soon but will need help making it her home again any assistance you can provide will be greatly appreciated.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/wellington/129811210