Getting to Know: Christina and Damien

For Mum Christina and son Damien, being part of the Mission team is more than just work, “it reflects our family values of dignity, compassion and second chances.”

Both Christina and Damien work in our housing team, supporting people who have experienced homelessness to rebuild their lives in safe, stable homes.

Christina is a keyworker in the Street to Home team, where she is affectionately known as Mama C.

“We help people get off the street, find housing and sustain their tenancy. Because we work within the Housing First framework, we get them housed irrespective of whatever challenges they’re dealing with – health issues, addiction, trauma - and then we support them to start addressing those challenges.”

For Christina, graduating people from the Housing First programme is always rewarding: “When they’re doing well, they have jobs, homes, they’re in steady relationships, their mental health is good. And they have the tools to navigate through any life challenges that come up. They’re actually independent and don’t need us anymore.”

Damien leads the Supportive Housing team, which provides 24/7 social support for tenants in the HomeGround apartments. “Our job is to provide pathways to empowerment” explains Damien. “We create partnerships with whānau rather than rescuing them, and support whānau to be able to make decisions on their own.” 

It all begins with connection: “Building relationship is the first intervention. If whānau know that - no matter what - you’re going to show up, they will open up to you.” says Damien.
“It’s about being there for someone who needs care, a listening ear, a shared laugh,” Christina adds.

Damien and Christina feel privileged to work together at the Mission: “Working alongside my son reminds me that compassion is something we pass down, not just something we practise. It’s the same spirit that lives in every corner of the Mission - where people uplift each other, one small act at a time.”

“At the end of the day, I hope the people we meet feel seen, cared for, and reminded that they matter.” - Christina