More people in financial hardship declined govt food grants

More people in financial hardship have been declined government food grants this year and foodbanks warn this is putting even more pressure on their struggling services. Data released to RNZ under the official information act shows six percent of special needs grants were declined in the first nine months of this year. That's compared to just 3.5 percent for the same period in 2023. The Ministry of Social Development offers the hardship grants, most are given for food, and people do not have to be on a benefit to apply. Amy Williams reports.