6th August 2013

The tragic side of homelessness

The death of Edwin Linder highlights the real tragedy of homelessness. That is the loss of potential and of hope for the future.

While the details of why, and how, he died are not yet known, Edwin’s tragic death highlights that behind every homeless person is a story, a dream and a multitude of gifts and talents. Sadly on Saturday, 3rd August, Edwin Linder's story came to an end.

Edwin was part of a community of people hidden, marginalised and often misunderstood. Yet through their words, Edwin’s family have painted the real picture of Edwin, their son and their brother. It is with great sadness that we pay tribute to the man with the "smiling face", who loved to paint and draw and who was known by those who loved him as "a good lad, a really clever person (and) a sharp mind."

Lifewise was part of Edwin’s life. His sudden death has left the entire team at Lifewise with a renewed sense of drive to give hope to those living on the streets of Auckland.

“We believe in the potential of those who are homeless and the contribution they could make to our community. We encourage anyone who is homeless, or who knows someone who is, to contact our homeless support team on (09) 379 6932 for help“ urges John McCarthy, general manager of Lifewise.

“As family, friends and community prepare to come together to remember Edwin, we extend our deepest sympathy to Edwin’s family at this time of great heart break.”

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