New HQ for Te Whare’s Outreach programmes
Gail Fisher-Nusenu, Rose Windle, Jo Johnson and Alli Gardener
Pictured above at the opening of Te Whare Mahana’s Outreach headquarters at 34 Motupipi Street, Takaka last Tuesday are: from left, Gail Fisher-Nusenu, Outreach co-ordinator, Rose Windle chair of Te Whare’s board, Jo Johnson manager of Te Whare Mahana and Alli Gardener GB Work centre manager.
The former headquarters, which Jo described as “barely OK” for Outreach’s needs, will be made available to long-term independent tenants with accommodation needs.
The new premises used to be administered by the GB Work Centre Trust.
“It was serendipitous that we were wanting to vacate number 34 and Te Whare’s board were looking for a better home for Outreach,” said Alli.
The new premises will also house the Bay’s alcohol and drug programmes, peer support workers and community support for youth as well as providing emergency accommodation.
Gail, who has been Outreach’s co-ordinator for only six weeks, was enthusiastic about her team and its new premises.
“It’s fantastic,” she said. “I’ve been struck by the openness and warmth of the people and their brilliant networking. They’re innovative and very collaborative. The new headquarters will allow Outreach to develop some new programmes around wellness and achieving independence for people with mental health needs.”
Neil Wilson
