AUCKLAND, New Zealand – Nurturing Families, a prominent Auckland charity providing essential goods and support to vulnerable families, has issued an urgent appeal for community funding after experiencing an unexpected $100,000 shortfall that threatens its operations.
The registered not-for-profit organisation, which collaborates closely with front-line social services, distributes over $1 million worth of goods annually, ranging from basic hygiene products to crucial childcare items. Last year alone, it assisted more than 1,500 Auckland families, contributing to a total of 30,000 children supported since its inception in 2012.
However, the sudden loss of significant funding has placed the charity in a precarious position. Tayla Nasmith, the founder of Nurturing Families, warned that the shortfall would have a severe impact on the families who rely on their services, particularly as requests for assistance are currently at unprecedented levels.
“2025 has already proven to be our busiest year to date,” Ms Nasmith said on Wednesday. “Families are struggling to get by, a message we’ve heard time and time again from the agencies we work with and the parents we support.”
While the charity has sufficient funds to continue its work in the immediate future, Ms Nasmith expressed serious concerns about its long-term viability without bridging the $100,000 gap. “Without filling the shortfall,” she stated, “we’re unlikely to make it to the end of the year.”
Nurturing Families provides more than just material aid. Its community centre in Henderson offers vital community support through initiatives like a parenting group, fostering connections and reducing isolation for struggling parents.
“We consistently hear from the families we support how much of a difference our services make,” Ms Nasmith added. “We’re not just about providing physical support, but also community support.”
Over the past 13 years, the charity has built a robust network, partnering with 167 different agencies, including major health and social service providers like Te Whatu Ora (Health New Zealand), Starship Children’s Hospital, Lifewise, and Plunket. These partnerships enable Nurturing Families to effectively reach and assist families identified as needing support by front-line workers.
Acknowledging the current economic pressures felt across the country, Ms Nasmith directed her appeal towards those in a position to help.
“We know times are tough right now across the board, for both individuals and other not-for-profit organisations,” she said. “We’re asking for support from those who have the means to do so and recognise the value of making sure our children receive the support they need.”
Donations to Nurturing Families can be made via their fundraising page: https://donate-to-nurturing-families.raisely.com/