Catholic Social Services Wellington has helped many

By CathNews New Zealand

October 31st, 2025

Food parcels ready to go out. (WelCom/Archdiocese of Wellington)

Catholic Social Services in Wellington has brought hope to a wide variety of people in need over the past year.

Ahead of its November annual appeal, CSS outlined some of the ways it has given assistance to a diverse group of people.

It has provided over 5000 hours of chaplaincy support to hospital patients, prisoners, whānau and staff. More than 50 newly-arrived refugees were provided with household items and food, or family reunification assistance was given. Some 40 Companions were trained to work through grief and loss issues with people in school and community settings.

Training and mentoring was given to more than 30 men to become the best fathers they can be. And assistance was given to more than 60 people seeking accommodation, access to health services, support dealing with government agencies and others with significant needs in communities.

Wellington Archbishop Paul Martin SM emphasised the importance of supporting the annual appeal.

“In order to do this work, we need financial support to run our various programmes and give the help and support that we do,” he said. “Our call to help our brothers and sisters is at the very heart of our Christian calling.”

The appeal runs from November 1-30.

FULL STORY

WelCom October 2025 (Archdiocese of Wellington)