Seven family service providers in Porirua are facing up to a 30% reduction in government funding, a move that has sparked significant concern among local organisations and leaders. The funding cuts, affecting services that support vulnerable tamariki and whānau, have raised fears about the potential negative impacts on the community.
Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira Chief Executive, Helmut Modlik, expressed grave concerns over the cuts.
“It’s tamariki who will pay for the cuts. We’ll fight to keep and improve the services because whānau need our support.” – says Modlik.
Modlik highlighted that these cuts come at a time when the community is still grappling with the intergenerational harm caused by historical abuses in state care and faith-based institutions, as recently examined by the Royal Commission of Inquiry.
The impacted organisations, including Taeaomanino Trust, Wesley Community Action, Porirua Whānau Centre, Barnardos Aotearoa, Wairere Care Services, and WELLfed NZ Trust, are united in their opposition to the cuts. David Hanna, Director of Wesley Community Action, criticised the decision, noting that it undermines the positive relationships that have been built with the Porirua Oranga Tamariki office under the leadership of Ngāti Toa Rangatira.
In response to the funding reductions, the group of service providers has urgently requested a meeting with Oranga Tamariki Chief Executive Chappie Te Kani to seek explanations and explore potential solutions. While Oranga Tamariki has agreed to meet, a date has yet to be set.
Despite the uncertainty, the affected organisations have reassured the community that they will continue to provide essential services to vulnerable whānau in Porirua. Modlik expressed concern that the situation in Porirua might be indicative of a broader national issue, emphasising the critical need for continued support for high-needs whānau.
In contrast, ACT Party MP and Children’s Minister Karen Chhour, defended the funding reallocations, arguing that the previous government allowed providers to retain unused funds despite under-delivering on services. Chhour stated, “I am committed to putting the safety of tamariki in Oranga Tamariki’s care ahead of the security of the businesses run by providers.” She emphasised that the government’s approach ensures taxpayer money is used more effectively, redirecting funds from underperforming providers to those better equipped to deliver essential services.
The situation remains tense as the community awaits further developments, with both service providers and the government standing firm in their positions. The outcome of the upcoming discussions with Oranga Tamariki will be closely watched by those concerned about the future of social services in Porirua and beyond.