As the cold weather sets in, more people are turning to Community Link for a helping hand - and the organisation is ready to respond.

Over the past two months, Community Link has provided 218 food parcels to local residents and food bank demand has risen 25 percent since the end of summer.

Demand for the one-stop support and connection centre’s other services are also rising, Community Link manager Kate Murray says.

“Winter is a tough time for many people,” Kate said, with ‘cold and flu’ season leading to time off work, reduced work hours in some industries, and other issues in play.

“All those things have ramifications for families,” she said. “You don’t have to lose a lot of hours for it to impact your finances.”

And for families already stretched, the added costs of winter heating can be tough - but targeted support is available.

Community Link’s successful Cold Kids fundraising campaign means it is well stocked with support to help people stay warm this winter, with energy bill support, firewood and the like available.

Read more: Cold Kids campaign surpasses $60,000 goal

“We’ve got an incredible array of resources that if people are in need can come in.”

Kate said they had already been made aware of at least one person who couldn’t afford to stay warm but didn’t know support was available - a reminder of why Community Link is keen to get the word out.

“Everyone who comes in [for heating support] will see our occupational therapist to go through what support they need,” Kate said. “You can email her directly at [email protected] or phone up.”

Community Link also provides a range of other support year-round. Learn more here or call (03) 443 7799.

PHOTO: Wānaka App