Countdown's Food for Good Appeal for KidsCan is aiming to raise $500,000 to help feed thousands of kids supported through KidsCan's food programmes.

Since April, KidsCan has been feeding 40,000 Kiwi kids a day, which is 10,000 more than the same time last year, and they have more than 100 schools and early childhood centres on their waiting list who desperately need food assistance.

KidsCan CEO and founder, Julie Chapman, says the appeal couldn't come at a more critical time, as demand for food in schools continues to increase.

'There were plenty of families struggling before the effects of COVID-19 set in, and this has only been exacerbated with incomes being reduced and some parents losing jobs altogether.

'We know that when budgets are tight families sacrifice food and unfortunately that means more Kiwi kids arrive at school or daycare hungry and aren't able to enjoy their day. The majority of parents are doing the right thing and simply don't have enough money to make ends meet - there's no shame in this, and we need to help.”

Countdown's general manager corporate affairs Kiri Hannifin, says that the 20,000 strong Countdown team is keen to help make sure no Kiwi kid goes hungry.

'Together our team and customers are determined to help make a difference to our littlest Kiwis. We've been humbled to see the care and generosity that Kiwis have shown to each other this year. Whether you can give a little or a lot, it absolutely all helps.”

The Countdown Food for Good Appeal runs until November 1.

Since June, Countdown's Food for Good Foundation has donated $1 million to food welfare charities and agencies around the country, as well as more than $580,000 worth of food donated by Countdown and its customers. The foundation aims to provide meaningful and long-lasting support to New Zealand communities, giving all Kiwis the opportunity to thrive, and helping to build a stronger, healthier New Zealand for future generations.

Customers can get behind the appeal at all 183 stores across New Zealand by purchasing a raffle ticket, donating at the checkout or purchasing a packet of Countdown lamingtons where 20c from every pack is donated to KidsCan. Customers can also donate online at countdown.co.nz/foodforgoodappeal.

The Countdown Food for Good Appeal runs until November 1.

For more information on the Countdown Food for Good Appeal for KidsCan, visit countdown.co.nz/kidscan