Haven For Separated Dads In Need
A dedicated house for fathers in the midst of separation, and their children is being recognised for the much-needed service it is providing.
Separated Fathers Support Trust House coordinator Warren Heap says that the house specifically caters for children as well as fathers and gives families a chance to get away from often very stressful environments.
“At the very least we offer people meals and a place to sleep. Children often say “it’s good being here Dad as there are no arguments”. In a stressful situation accommodation can be just one of the many issues being faced.
“A major factor underlining the need for such a ‘retreat’ house is the opportunity it presents in enabling a father to retain his children or have more meaningful ongoing contact with them. It provides him with an address, phone contact and may help him maintain his job. It certainly provides him with time and space to re establish his life and focus on other important issues he is faced with at this difficult time,” said Mr Heap.
In addition to the House residents’ monetary contribution, the Separated Fathers Support Trust is reliant on donations and fundraising. A SKYCITY Auckland Community Trust grant of $5000 has assisted with operational costs for the house.
Far too often the Men are left out in the cold and no one cares. Their house is no longer theirs, their children scared to ring. Who gives a dam about us men unless its to pay Child Support.
I wish there were places to go. A Family place like the multi million $ family place in the Nth Island for People with additions. Its like a holiday home for them. Do we need to have additions and then we may get some support
Comment by Mike — Tue 24th August 2004 @ 4:48 pm