Manchester House was established in 1972 as an Opportunity Shop in rented premises in Manchester Street staffed by volunteers from the member Churches, in an endeavour to provide funds to employ a Social Worker. This had been identified as a huge need within the community following a youth suicide in the town. In 1974, with sufficient funds, this was finally achieved, and Manchester House has been working and supporting the community ever since.
Manchester House supports a stable and resilient community that demonstrates care for all its’ people, especially the vulnerable, through practical social and family support, counselling, budgeting, and foodbank services.
Manchester House has continued to expand its operation over the years to respond to the growing and evolving needs of the community.
Increasing drug and alcohol problems are affecting all socio-economic areas of the community, and the complex make-up of modern-day family life and its relationships, are two of the key issues that Manchester House deals with daily.
The methamphetamine support (MSS) programme continues to evolve and has established a parallel group focusing on the needs of those who live and want to break free from addiction. Numbers are steadily increasing and there can be up to 30-35 people present for each weekly meeting, with 752 total contacts throughout the year. 90 per cent of the group are now recovering addicts from methamphetamine, the rest from alcohol. Paddy Gower’s TV award winning programme highlighted the effects and the easy availability of methamphetamine in New Zealand.
The Senior Hub continues to be challenged with the many real and pressing needs older people that are facing and is offering fresh, appealing initiatives for people to engage, connect and develop. Art and exercise classes still prove exceptionally popular and attract 20-25 people per session up to the age of 102.
After School Activity Programme (ASAP) provides high quality, safe and supportive care to the children and families of the community. ASAP endeavours to socially grow children in a fun, engaging and age-appropriate environment while supporting the whole family.
The Op Shop at 115 Fergusson St continues to be a vibrant experience along with the opening of a Vintage Room at the Op Shop to attract new visitors. The shop is steadily increasing in popularity and revenue and providing a stable funding stream for the social services work.
68 Aorangi Street, Feilding
323 7191
Discover friendly Feilding and Manawatū District NZ; a great place to stop, shop and eat while you play and explore our spectacular landscape from the mountains to the sea.
Community spirit is alive and well in friendly Feilding’s events. Our events help us to celebrate, encourage cultural and community interaction, enrich lives, and build memories.
Discover friendly Feilding and Manawatū District NZ; a great place to stop, shop and eat while you play and explore our spectacular landscape from the mountains to the sea.