What would help people in New Zealand who are struggling, who are on the poverty line?
The Mission's "Family 100 Research Project" listened to the stories of 100 families who were long-term users of our foodbank services. They told us that there were eight key drivers that kept people trapped in poverty. Those drivers are debt, housing, employment, health, food insecurity, support services, education and justice. Change any one of those realities and it would create a big shift in the lives of those who struggle.
Define wealth.
Wealth has to be where everyone has what they need. Material goods, yes, but more than that. A safe place, a place to belong, dream and achieve their potential. Good, healthy relationships, a chance to love and be loved. A land that is cared for and respected. My wealth is linked intimately to your wealth, and the wealth of our planet.
Give avarice a face - who would it be or what would it look like?
Part of my day-to-day reality is being with people who really genuinely don't have enough. Working at the Mission, I am also struck by the generosity of many Aucklanders and their willingness to give and share. When people see and experience the reality of someone who doesn't have enough, usually empathy comes. However, where there is no empathy, avarice grows.
What political figure or public figure, alive or dead, do you think embodies the greatest philosophy on money?
One of my favourite quotes comes from Mother Teresa: "If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other."
What single greatest piece of wisdom about life have you heard from a client or a co-worker, while working at the Mission?
Part of my day-to-day work is being part of the Mission Community Centre, as we serve dinner here 365 days a year. Everyone is welcome to this table, no matter what. And I am often struck how accepting this community is. It teaches me a lot.
What about New Zealand right now needs to be fixed?
Social housing.
What do you value far and above money?
People, our land, our wairua.
If you won Lotto, what would you do?
Celebrate and then think about it.
What the world needs now, is?
Some quiet space.
What is your greatest indulgence?
People and their stories.
By the numbers
Auckland City Mission: 01.07.14-30.06.15
132 homeless people housed.
$1.3 million worth of food distributed via Foodlink and through the Mission's Crisis Care services.
12,000+ emergency food parcels distributed to families in need.
2000+ homeless outreach contacts.
45,000+ visits to the Mission's Homeless Community Drop-In Centre.
Helen Robinson is Team Leader, Crisis Care at Auckland City Mission.