Honouring Caitlin, calling for change

Today, RNZ shares the life of Caitlin McDonald, who experienced homelessness in Christchurch during the final years of her life.

Caitlin’s mum Wendy, tells RNZ that Caitlin - “a beautiful soul who was not quite of this world,” suffered a preventable, premature death, aged 47.

“Caitlin died not just homeless, but Caitlin died from homelessness,” Wendy says.

Wendy says that her daughter’s life, and the lives of others experiencing homelessness, need to be seen and heard.

“The scourge of homelessness can and must be addressed. I’m sure - and hope - that homelessness keeps on being in the headlines until the government responds by doing something decisive, humane and effective,” she says.

We acknowledge Caitlin and all those who have lost their lives while experiencing homelessness, and support the whānau who continue to hold their memories and grieve their loss.

We acknowledge and support Wendy for sharing Caitlin’s life, her memories, and the realities she faced.

Follow the RNZ link here.