The Salvation Army is looking for individuals and groups to "adopt" a family this Christmas.
The Adopt-a-Family programme, which has been operating for six years, pairs up donors and recipients.
Lieutenant Colonel Wilfred Arnold said the Salvation Army works with people for whom the current economic climate means that "sometimes the ends just don't meet", especially around times like Christmas.
"The expectation at Christmas time is that you buy gifts and put a special meal on the table," which can prove to be a big ask for some families, said Colonel Arnold.
He said the Salvation Army last year matched around 65 donor groups with individuals and families. Donors range from office groups, ward staff at Waikato Hospital, to individuals and families. Donors can choose to be matched with a small or large family or an individual.