Rising Cost of Living Crisis Grips New Zealand, Charities and Community Organizations Rally to Support Families and Small Businesses
New Zealand is currently facing a cost of living crisis that is impacting households, families, communities, and small businesses across the country. With the continuous rise in the cost of day-to-day essentials, disposable income is under more pressure than ever before. As a result, more and more people are struggling to make ends meet, especially the most vulnerable communities. However, amidst this crisis, there is hope as charities and community organizations are stepping up to support those affected.
One such organization is KidsCan, a children’s charity and ASB community partner, that is playing a crucial role in supporting families during these challenging times. KidsCan works with schools and early childhood centers throughout New Zealand to provide children with warm food and clothing. According to Julie Chapman, the founder and chief executive of KidsCan, the demand for assistance has surged as more families find it difficult to cope with rising bills. This increased pressure has strained the resources of the charity.
Chapman highlights the severity of the situation, stating that Right now, things are the toughest that they’ve been for many families. She further explains that the hardships faced by families directly impact the children they support, particularly in terms of hunger and lack of basic necessities. Families are struggling to afford decent shoes or warm jackets, and this is where KidsCan steps in to bridge the gap.
Currently, KidsCan provides support to a third of schools in New Zealand, which amounts to 898 schools and 208 early childhood centers. However, due to the rising demand, the organization has a waiting list of more than 150 schools and centers that are in need of assistance.
The cost of living crisis has not only affected families but also charities like KidsCan. The prices of jackets and essential food items have increased, which has put additional strain on the organization. Nevertheless, Chapman remains determined to expand the vital work of KidsCan, thanks to the support from partners like ASB and other generous supporters.
ASB, through its Community Banking team, is also actively involved in addressing the cost of living crisis. Joel Amosa, the ASB Community Engagement Manager, acknowledges the impact of increasing prices on communities and emphasizes the importance of addressing this issue. He emphasizes that while financial difficulties are often seen as a taboo topic, there are several online tools and support options available to help individuals assess their financial situations.
ASB offers Better Banking and Financial Wellbeing Workshops that aim to empower people with positive money habits and enhance their financial management skills. Additionally, the ASB Support Finder tool assists individuals in identifying government support programs they may be eligible for. Both the workshops and Support Finder are accessible to everyone, regardless of their banking institution.
Amosa believes that accessible online resources can make a significant difference. Platforms with basic budgeting templates allow individuals to track their income and expenses, while features such as the ASB mobile app’s financial wellbeing score provide insights similar to a credit score.
Furthermore, ASB’s small business experts have observed that business owners are facing challenges due to higher operating costs, cashflow pressure, and reduced customer spending. However, they have also witnessed businesses making efforts to adapt and build resilience to sustain themselves amid the crisis. Regular financial wellbeing conversations with small businesses are held to help them navigate through these challenging times.
Bob Agnew, ASB Area Manager, urges business owners to reach out to their bank to discuss their financial pressures and explore available options. Holding conversations with banking professionals is considered the most effective tool in finding suitable solutions.
When it comes to managing finances, every step counts. ASB’s Cost of Living Navigator provides useful tips, tools, and expert guidance to help individuals and businesses stay on top of their financial situations.
In conclusion, the rising cost of living crisis in New Zealand has placed significant strain on families, communities, and small businesses. However, organizations like KidsCan and ASB are working tirelessly to provide support and assistance to those in need. Despite facing their own challenges, they remain committed to helping vulnerable communities and ensuring that no one is left behind in these difficult times.
