With Christmas approaching, Barnardos Aotearoa is seeing growing demand from families in Porirua and is calling on the community to help keep local tamariki safe during what can be a vulnerable time.
“Children are at the centre of what we do at Barnardos Early Learning Porirua. We work to remove barriers so every child can access quality early learning,” said Centre Manager Rosie Churms. “To help make this possible, we’re offering 30 hours free for the first three months for all new enrolments.”
Based at 24 Mungavin Avenue, Barnardos Early Learning Porirua is supporting families facing rising unemployment, housing difficulties, and increasing numbers of grandparents or wider aiga stepping in as caregivers. Despite this, Churms says Porirua’s strong community spirit continues to shine.
“We’re grateful to our corporate partners and local supporters who donate gifts, bringing moments of joy to children who might otherwise go without.”
Barnardos’ 2026 Christmas Campaign is focused on prevention. It aims to ensure children are safe, supported, and have somewhere to turn before stress escalates into harm. Their wider services include early learning, social work, foster care, and the 0800 What’s Up helpline, which is open year-round, including Christmas Day.
The Porirua centre is already seeing increased need compared to last year, but staff remain committed to offering practical help and connection. Activity packs, food parcels, and financial assistance are being tailored to families’ needs this season. Their Footsteps to Feeling Safe programme supports children healing from trauma.
The campaign website encourages donations, with specific figures showing how far support can go: $25 funds a safety plan toolkit for a child; $75 supports one-on-one time with a social worker; and $125 provides a group session for children affected by family violence.
To donate or learn more: https://safe-at-christmas.barnardos.org.nz