Tackling Child Homelessness in Aotearoa

A recent report by the Coalition to End Women's Homelessness reveals that 33,192 children and young people in Aotearoa were living in severe housing deprivation as of Census night 2023. These children, who lacked stable shelter or lived in uninhabitable conditions, experienced higher rates of abuse and poorer health outcomes. The research also highlighted that Māori and Pacific children are disproportionately affected by this crisis.

According to the coalition, addressing child homelessness is intrinsically linked to tackling women's homelessness. The report indicates that tracking the experiences of homeless women often reveals the presence of children, suggesting a strong connection between the two issues. Experts emphasize the urgency of the situation, calling for immediate action to resolve this societal problem.

This report underscores a significant social issue in Aotearoa, highlighting the vulnerability of children and the disproportionate impact on Māori and Pacific communities, necessitating urgent policy and support interventions.