Our Story

After seeing a real need for clothing for children uplifted from their homes and placed into care with nothing, we had the idea for Helping Families

Helping Families is a way to support local families with some of the essentials required to raise children, so they can thrive and reach their full potential. However it’s not just children who need assistance, so we aim to help anyone who needs it. We believe no family should struggle alone.

In the Nelson/Tasman region we’re fortunate to have a community that is willing to help others in need. We tap into that community spirit by accepting donations of clothing, school uniforms, bedding, toys, books, firewood and car seats, which we can then distribute to those who need it.

We work directly with people in need, as well as community organisations and other charities.

We’re a registered charity (CC55968) and are governed by a board of trustees.

What We Do

We facilitate the receipt of donated goods from the community and distribute them to anyone in need.

Location & Opening hours

452 Lower Queen Street, Richmond

Tuesday 10am – 1pm & Friday 1pm – 3pm (excluding holidays)

We close during school holidays but the pantry and drop-off point remain open

Items Available

Clothing, School Uniforms, Bedding, Toys, Books, Car Seats and Firewood.

We ensure items available are in good clean condition and do not need repair.

Car seats meet current safety regulations.

Firewood (when available) is dry and untreated.

Partner With Us

You might be an agency or charity involved in similar work and want to explore collaboration

You might be a business, grants body or individual who wants to support our work

Please contact us to begin the conversation

Volunteer

If you have a desire to serve our community, please contact us to find out more about our volunteer opportunities

Helping Us

We are so grateful to the people who make it possible for us to help families in need. You can support us by donating goods, donating money, making special projects happen or volunteering.

Support Us

Volunteer

Make a Donation

Clothes & Shoes

We’ll gladly take any unwanted clothes and shoes of all sizes. They must be clean, in good condition and not need repairing.

School Uniforms

We accept school uniforms and usually have them available all year. They must be clean, in good condition and not need repairing.

Toys & Books

Every child delights in having a toy. Books help their literacy development.

They must be in good condition and meet current safety requirements.

Car Seats

If your child has outgrown their car seat then we can use it. However it must have a current certification.

Bedding

Cots, bed linen and blankets can make such a difference to a family.

They must be in good condition and be safe for use.

Firewood

Clean dry firewood helps a family stay warm in winter, meaning they live in a healthier environment.

Note: Not always available

Community Support

Is your business or organisation looking to support a community social enterprise ? Please consider supporting us.

Use the Support Us button to start the conversation

Become a Regular Giver

We’d love to do more in purchasing new items for helping families in need but can only do this if money is available. Please consider setting up a regular donation. Donations are eligible for a tax credit to NZ tax payers.

Volunteer

Every organisation is only as good as the people who make it work. If you have a heart for helping our community plenty contact us to explore the opportunity.

Bags of Rags

Need rags for use around your home or business?

We sell bags (2-3kgs) for $6.50 (inc GST)

Our Supporters

Our heartfelt thanks to the community organisations, businesses and individuals who give money, donate goods, promote our work and offer their labour.
If you would like to donate money or find out more how you can support us then click on the relevant button below.