The cost-of-living crisis continues to weigh heavily on families across Aotearoa New Zealand. Rising prices for food and other essentials have become a reality that we have all had to face in recent years, but those who feel it most are those with the least: the most vulnerable in our community.

We see the impact every day at the Compassion Soup Kitchen. Our breakfast and dinner services are often overflowing with whānau looking for a hot meal, or some extra help with clothing. There are many days when our dining room simply can’t keep up, and people must wait outside for a seat. While they wait, we do our best to offer them a hot coffee to help them through those cold mornings and evenings.

In the past 12 months, the demand for food has increased astronomically. In the year to June 2025 we served 20% more meals. And this year, the numbers are still climbing.

Meeting this growing demand with limited resources is becoming more challenging every day. Not only have our operational costs risen, but food is harder to source.

It has been a tough year – but thanks to the generosity of our supporters, partners, and donors, we have been able to keep bringing hope to those who need it most.