Christchurch City Mission sees wave of support from kids

The Christchurch City Mission is reporting a groundswell of children creating ways to make a difference in people's lives.

It's Matthew Mark's first year at the helm of the Christchurch City Mission, which he says has been eye-opening.

"Across this whole year we've seen a 25 percent increase in demand on our food bank, which has been quite significant," he told Newshub.

"The lion's share of that increase has been working families."

The city mission has seen a wave of support from Christchurch's youngest residents. Children have been asking for money or food to donate, rather than presents for themselves.

"You've got these young ones who are actually thinking from a socially minded perspective on how they can make a difference," says Mr Mark. 

"It's fantastic."

Hundreds of people have queued for the food bank this December, some arriving hours before it even opens.

"We probably don't understand as a community the desperate need that exists," says Mr Mark.  

"That's not a slight against our community; it's just that it's not necessarily visible."

This year the giving season has seen Christchurch locals outdo themselves in their generosity.

Newshub.