Watch: Shelter bags for homeless 'the starting block' to cope with frigid nights
Rotary Clubs in New Zealand have distributed shelter bags to homeless individuals to provide warmth and security during winter. The initiative is highlighted as a vital 'starting block' for those transitioning out of homelessness into stable housing.
Why it matters
The story addresses the practical challenges of homelessness and the role of community-led initiatives in providing immediate humanitarian aid.
An Auckland man who has been sleeping rough for months says the gift of a shelter bag was a game-changer this winter, helping him stay warm while waiting for housing.
Rotary Clubs across the country have responded to increasing homelessness with a special fundraiser - they've imported a container of 1000 shelter bags for city missions and other charities to give out.
Lifewise has given 50 shelter bags to rough sleepers from its hub, at Merge Cafe on Auckland's K'Rd.
One grateful recipient is a man who was deported from Australia early last year and spent seven months homeless.
"I wasn't sleeping. I was staying awake, crashing on the couch every 10 days or so. If you don't go to bed, you're not homeless which stems into obviously depression and drug addiction and stuff so it's all a cycle."
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