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The Tick for Kids campaign says the latest Household Incomes Report and Economic Survey shows far too many children live in poverty.
The campaign brings together 30 organisations who are asking voters to consider the needs of children when they cast their ballot in the September 20 general election.
Spokesperson Anton Blank from Mana Ririki says children carry a disproportionate burden of poverty in New Zealand, with 22 percent of those aged under years in poverty.
That’s because many young families face inadequate income levels and high housing costs.
Half of families living in rental accommodation and receiving the Accommodation Supplement are paying more than 50 percent of their incomes on housing costs.
The report showed half of poor children are Maori or Pacific.
Mr Blank says it confirms the difference that can be made to New Zealanders’ standard of living when the right policies are in place 7 percent of those over 65 years living in poverty.
Copyright © 2014, UMA Broadcasting Ltd
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