The Auckland and Wellington City Missions are launching their annual Christmas street appeal on December 4 and 5.
Missioner Diane Robertson joined Paul Henry to talk about how people can get involved and make a difference.
This year the Auckland City Mission will provide more than 3000 emergency food parcels so families can celebrate Christmas at home.
It will distribute 10,000 presents to children who would otherwise miss out and host 2000 at its Christmas lunch.
Ms Robertson says the number one thing you can do is make a financial contribution at the Become Someone's Angel website.
Food and gifts are the next most helpful.
The Christchurch City Mission is not holding a street appeal but you can still donate to them here.