“Can you imagine,” my voice begins, “families finding hope here at De Paul House?” It stands as a beacon of support in Auckland North. De Paul House offers housing and family support services. It specifically helps those most underserved in our community. This includes families with dependent children and adults over 65 years.
Let’s step back to the early 1980s. Members of the Society of St Vincent de Paul in Northcote noticed a troubling trend. Many families on the North Shore lived in overcrowded conditions or were homeless. Driven by compassion, they sought a solution. In 1986, their vision became a reality. The Daughters of Charity established De Paul House. The name honored St Vincent de Paul and the Society’s vital work.
Initially, De Paul House offered six housing units. These helped homeless people. Over time, the organization expanded. Today, De Paul House has a team of dedicated volunteers. They assist between 80 and 100 individuals annually. A significant portion of those served are children.
De Paul House aims to keep families together. It teaches them valuable skills. These skills help them re-enter the job market. The services extend beyond housing. De Paul House provides food, clothing, and furniture. They offer life skills classes. Families learn budgeting and prepare for their futures.
For school-aged children, De Paul House offers crucial support. They can get after-school homework help. Printing and computer resources are available. A spacious play area serves families with pre-school children. Qualified staff prepare these younger children for school.
Since 2017, De Paul House has expanded its reach. It now includes housing within the local community. In 2020, it gained registration as a community housing provider. Currently, there are 10 residential units on the Onewa Road site. These units complement the administration offices, supplies, and educational facilities.
Major alterations and additions occurred in 2014. These included a purpose-built early childhood center. Also a community learning center and accommodation came for three larger self-contained units. De Paul House manages 44 transitional housing and 12 social housing properties. These are located north of the Harbour Bridge.
Wrap-around services support the families. These services include budgeting advice, training, and digital literacy training. The team at De Paul House works towards an important goal. It aims for safe and secure housing with social work support. They offer transitional housing. They also assist families needing help with their existing rental property. This support addresses issues. Problems with neighbors. Rent arrears. Budgeting issues. Problems with landlords are addressed. They also provide assistance to those facing eviction. Food, clothing, household goods, and furniture are available too. They give financial management services and parenting classes.
De Paul House embodies key values. These values include justice, truth, hope, and compassion. These are drawn from the legacy of Saints Vincent and Louise. These saints worked to address social inequities in 17th century France. In Aotearoa, these core values underpin a commitment to social justice. This commitment aligns with the spirit of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
The staff of 20 is supported by 50-60 essential volunteers. Volunteers play important roles across most services. They help with food, clothing, and furniture. Their contributions are invaluable.
De Paul House strives for long-term change for families. They report a very high success rate. The majority of families entering the program do not become homeless again. Their children remain enrolled in school or childcare. The ultimate vision is clear. De Paul House aims to be widely recognized. It wants to be known as the effective supportive housing provider in Auckland North.
So, as we stand before De Paul House, remember it is more than just a building. It is a place of transformation. It is a symbol of hope. It is a testament to the power of community.