The Salvation Army is appealing to the public to help people living in poverty over the colder months by donating to its Winter Appeal, which launches today.
The Tauranga centre has a consistently high demand throughout winter, with more than 21 people seeking basic needs predominately for food and blankets.
Many people also access its budgeting advice, counselling, parenting and positive lifestyle programmes, and ask for help with loans and transitional housing.
The Salvation Army's national director of community ministries Jono Bell said vulnerable people struggled with warmth, shelter and food over the winter period, which could exacerbate or cause health problems.
"Substandard housing and poor heating often lead to sickness and people don't always get to a doctor when they should."