Housing offers, job leads for homeless man

After living in his car through a Dunedin winter, Brent McEwan says he is eager for a job and a...
After living in his car through a Dunedin winter, Brent McEwan says he is eager for a job and a fixed abode. Photo: ODT files
A Dunedin man who spent winter living in his car has received several offers of accommodation.

Brent McEwan began living in the car five months ago, after his father died of cancer. Mr McEwan was unable to remain in the rental property they had shared.

The 42-year-old said he hated his situation and was desperate for a job and a fixed abode.

Since revealing his plight at the weekend, the Otago Daily Times has received three offers of temporary accommodation.

The offers are in Dunedin, Roxburgh and Tapanui, and have been relayed to him.

Several Otago residents have also contacted the ODT with job leads for Mr McEwan.

Speaking yesterday, Mr McEwan said he was extremely appreciative of the offers, and would be following them up.

``It's awesome ... Thank you so much.''

Dunedin City Council housing manager Alana Reid said the average waiting time for council accommodation was more than nine months for those aged under 55.

There were 209 people on the waiting list in September.

Ms Reid said the council did not provide emergency housing.

``The DCC doesn't provide short term or emergency housing. This is a core function of central, not local government.''

 

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