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.