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Download AudioChild Poverty Action Group member Susan St John says the Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency is challenging the view that poverty is the norm for many communities and whānau.
The agency has published evaluation reports of Ngā Tini Whetū, an early intervention programme which works with the whole whanau to help them make better lives for their tamariki.
The University of Auckland economist says the reports reflect the importance of wairua and restoring mana.
“It’s not just about material things and I think that’s a very good perspective for us to have – more money is essential but it’s not enough., There has to be all this wraparound as well to restore communities,” Dr St John says.
She says the report stresses the importance to healthy whanau of financial security and the ability to access available support.
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