John, Bronagh and Max receive invite to #Parkupforhomes: Mangere

The #Parkupforhomes team, in collaboration with Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG), have officially invited all the members of Parliament and their families "park up" in their cars for the night in Mangere on June 16, 2016.

Winter has arrived, and with it has come a growing public consciousness amongst all Kiwis that many families in our communities are without homes.

#Parkupforhomes spokesperson, Annaliese Johnston says that this community response is to show solidarity with those struggling.

"We believe that we have a collective responsibility to our most vulnerable and before we judge or impose policies we should take time to understand what it's like."

#Parkupforhomes will be a peaceful family-friendly demonstration (children are welcome and the organisers are bringing theirs), that will feature story-time for children, live music and a chance for sharing stories, poetry and speeches.

Johnston says there has already been an overwhelming response from the public for the #parkupforhomes initiative, and MPs have already been expressing interest in taking part.

"This response shows that the issue resonates with many people in our communities, as they care for those who doing it tough and want to do something to raise the awareness around this issue even further," says Johnston.

The organisers have collaborated with Child Poverty Action Group and will be recommending a series of policies for MPs to consider. The opportunity to discuss these points face-to-face with the Prime Minister and his Cabinet if they are able to attend would be warmly welcomed.

CPAG Housing Spokesperson Alan Johnson says while it’s great the community is taking this issue seriously it’s important the Government also considers meaningful action to curb this growing problem.

"What is needed is a substantial investment from the Government into building additional state houses," say Alan Johnson of CPAG.

For further details or to RSVP along with 900 other attendees, please visit our Facebook event page. #Parkupforhomes events will also be taking place in Lower Hutt on June 17 and in Otara, Auckland on June 25, and organisers are coming together to show their support in other regions. Visit our main Facebook page to support a #parkupforhomes event in your area.

ENDS

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