Editorial: Support for shelter idea still needed

The Hawke's Bay Today believe in the cause of Kiri and Kevin Swannell and the Limitless Hope shelter concept.

This newspaper supports Kevin and Kiri Swannell in their bid to establish an emergency shelter in Hawke's Bay.

We got behind the Limitless Hope Emergency Shelter Appeal because we believe the work this couple is doing is needed.

In today's paper we have a story about how plans for the shelter have changed. The original idea was for the Swannells to take up the kind offer of Property Brokers and its regional manager, Paul Whitaker, to have their old building and move it onto a site where it could be turned into the shelter for people in need.

However, as the months have gone on, the job of shifting the old house to another site seemed to become more complicated. A lot of people have pledged money, time and services, which the Swannells are still grateful for.

The thing is, this project is not over. I believe there is still an opportunity for the Swannells to get their shelter. The Mayor of Hastings, Lawrence Yule, told me yesterday that he was still actively looking for land for the shelter. If that comes together, finding houses or units to go on the land should not be a problem.

The Swannells have been upfront about things and still deserve the support of the community. They are still committed to helping those less fortunate than themselves.

All the money they have raised will still go towards the original plan of a shelter: it simply won't be the Property Brokers' house.

It was a kind gesture by Mr Whitaker and Property Brokers but unfortunately it did not work out.

However, the dream is still alive and this newspaper will be doing everything it can to support the Swannells.