Tuesday, 12 November 2013 - 11:14am |
Northland

Northland Police volunteer to build Habitat for Humanity house

1 min read

Fourteen Northland Police staff will be volunteering to help in the Habitat for Humanity's Metra Big Town Build.

Two teams of seven will take part in the build at Homeworld on Western Hills Drive, Whangärei. They are among several volunteers who will take 10 days to build the house, starting on Friday November 15.

Once the house has been completed to a lockable state it will be transported to its final location in Kamo.

The police teams, which will be working on November 15 and 21, will be a mix of those experienced in the building trade and some who have never set foot on a building site.

Northland District Police Commander Superintendent Russell Le Prou says this is a great opportunity for Police to take part in a community event and make a difference to one family's life.

"Our staff are very much a part of the community and are always keen to help where they can. This was demonstrated when we asked for volunteers and had a full list within hours!"

Mr Le Prou says with Police putting more of a focus on preventing crime and assisting victims, working on projects such as this fits well in improving the lives of Northlanders.

Habitat for Humanity Northland Executive Officer Conrad LaPointe says the enthusiasm from the Northland police for the build has been great.

"They have really embraced the community aspect of this build and we look forward to putting a hammer and paintbrush in their hands and getting them to work."

Habitat for Humanity helps low income families currently living in unsuitable accommodation into home ownership. Families help towards building the home and then go on a rent-to-buy scheme to finally own the home.
In this case the family will help put the final touches to the house when it is moved onto the Kamo site and then help with the next house built in Northland.

For media inquiries contact Northland Police Communications Manager Sarah Kennett on 09 430 4525 or 021 192 1099.