1787 days ago

Charities Brace for Surge in Demand

Caryn Wilkinson Reporter from Community News

Charities are bracing for a surge in demand ahead of winter and growing fears that legislative changes may lead to rent hikes.

The Trusts has pledged more than $1 million to charities and community groups this year despite facing an uncertain trading environment itself.

The social enterprise, funded by hospitality and retail operations, said it was adapting its model after the pandemic had changed the face of need in New Zealand.

The Trusts chief executive officer Allan Pollard said Christmas, the start of the school year and winter were the three most difficult times of the year for families managing their budgets.

"For many Kiwi families, the arrival of winter signals a new round of financial pressure that they are often ill-equipped to bear," he said.

"The cost of new clothing, bedding and just staying warm over winter will see many families having to make choices that may risk compromising their health- whether it is through changing their nutritional intake or even sacrificing a visit to the doctor.

“At the same time, the spectre of potential rents increase as a result of changes in the macro-environment creates uncertainty and stress.

“Sadly it is some of the most vulnerable in our community that live continuously on the threshold of financial hardship - struggling from week to week,” Pollard said.

The Your West Support Fund would offer funding of up to $20,000 for each community cause that meets their criteria, he said.

The first round of funding kicks off in July with a second round planned for about February next year.

“In addition to helping local charities continue their work at the coal face, we recognise that there are other segments of the community that could benefit from additional financial support. "

The Trusts will also open expressions of interest for major grants later in the year, he said.

More messages from your neighbours
3 days ago

🪱🐦 When are you the most productive? 🌙🦉

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Post has been diving into our daily habits, and research suggests being an early bird or a night owl isn’t just a choice—it’s biology! We all have that specific time when our brains finally "click" into gear.

This raises a big question for the modern workplace. To get the best out of everyone, should employers accommodate our natural body clocks? This idea is at the heart of the four-day work week and flexible scheduling movements.

We want to hear from you:
1. When does your brain "click" into gear?
2. Would a flexible (or shortened) schedule change the way you work?

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14 days ago

Poll: Is Auckland’s economy improving?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The latest reporting from The Post suggests a wave of optimism for 2026. With interest rates finally heading south, businesses are feeling more positive. But for many on the ground, the real-world recovery feels a bit like a slow-moving commute on Auckland's motorways.

We want to know: Are you seeing signs of Auckland's economy improving in your industry or neighbourhood? Whether it's busier shops, new projects kicking off, or just a shift in the mood ...

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Is Auckland’s economy improving?
  • 17.8% Yes
    17.8% Complete
  • 66.4% No
    66.4% Complete
  • 15.8% A little
    15.8% Complete
241 votes
1 day ago

🌉🛶 Early Birds Might Crack This One First… or Not? 🥚🧠

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

A person is crossing a bridge and sees a boat full of people, yet there isn't a single person on board.
How is this possible?

(Susan from Massey kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Susan!)

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!

Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.

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