What is a WINZ Food Grant?

A WINZ Food Grant is a non-repayable payment provided by Work and Income to help individuals and families cover immediate food costs when they’re unable to do so themselves. It’s often referred to as an emergency food grant or a special needs grant for food. This assistance is critical for preventing food insecurity and ensuring basic needs are met during times of unexpected financial strain.

“Work and Income aims to ensure no one goes without essential support. Food grants are a cornerstone of their immediate response to crisis situations, offering a temporary but vital relief measure.”

Unlike a benefit, a food grant is typically a one-off payment or a series of short-term payments, specifically for food items. The amount you receive depends on your individual circumstances, household size, and the severity of your need.

Who Can Apply for a WINZ Food Grant?

To determine your WINZ food grant eligibility, Work and Income assesses several key factors. While specific criteria can vary slightly, the core principle is that you must be in genuine and immediate need and unable to meet your food costs from your usual income or assets.

Key Eligibility Criteria:

• Residency: You must be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, ordinarily residing in New Zealand.
• Income and Assets: Your income and assets will be assessed to ensure you genuinely cannot afford food. This typically means having low income, few liquid assets, and limited savings.
• Immediate Need: You must demonstrate an immediate and pressing need for food, often due to an unforeseen circumstance or emergency.
• Not Receiving Other Assistance: While you can often receive a food grant alongside other benefits, WINZ will consider all your current income and support.

Common Situations Leading to Eligibility:

• Unexpected job loss or reduction in hours.
• Medical emergency or unforeseen health costs.
• Breakdown of essential appliances (e.g., fridge, stove) requiring immediate replacement funds.
• Domestic violence situations requiring urgent relocation.
• Natural disasters or other emergencies disrupting income or access to resources.
• Significant unexpected bill or expense that has depleted funds for food.

It’s important to remember that each application for a WINZ food grant is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Don’t assume you’re not eligible without making an inquiry.

Required Documents for Your WINZ Food Grant Application

Having the correct documentation ready can significantly speed up your WINZ food grant application. Work and Income requires evidence to verify your identity, income, expenses, and the nature of your emergency. Prepare these items before you contact them.

Action Checklist: Essential Documents for Your Application

• Proof of Identity: Your New Zealand driver’s licence, passport, or birth certificate. If you don’t have these, discuss other options with WINZ.
• Proof of Address: A recent utility bill, tenancy agreement, or letter from a landlord.
• Bank Account Details: Your bank account number and recent bank statements (usually for the last 4-6 weeks) for all accounts you hold. This helps verify your current financial situation.
• Income Information: Recent payslips, employment agreements, benefit statements, or a letter from your employer.
• Expense Information: Details of your regular expenses like rent/mortgage, utility bills, childcare costs, medical bills, and any recent unexpected expenses.
• Reason for the Grant: Any documentation supporting your immediate need (e.g., a bill for an unexpected expense, a doctor’s note, an eviction notice, or a letter from a support agency).
• Partner’s Information: If you have a partner, you’ll need similar identity, income, and expense details for them.

While this list covers most situations, a WINZ case manager may request additional information based on your specific circumstances. Being proactive and organised will streamline the process.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a WINZ Food Grant

Applying for a WINZ food grant can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can navigate the process effectively and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

1. Check Your Eligibility

Before doing anything else, review the eligibility criteria detailed above. Consider your immediate need, income, and assets. You can also use the Work and Income website to get a general idea of what you might be entitled to, though this is not exhaustive for special grants.

2. Gather Your Documents

As outlined in the previous section, collect all necessary proof of identity, income, expenses, and supporting evidence for your situation. Having everything organised will make your application much smoother.

3. Contact Work and Income

You have several options to initiate your WINZ food grant application:

• Phone: Call the Work and Income contact centre. This is often the quickest way to speak to someone directly about your immediate need. Be prepared for potential wait times.
• Online: If you have a MyMSD account, you may be able to apply for some forms of assistance online or update your details. However, for emergency food grants, a phone call or in-person visit is often preferred to discuss the urgency.
• In Person: Visit your local Work and Income service centre. This allows you to speak face-to-face with a case manager and present your documents directly.

Clearly explain your situation and why you need a food grant. Be honest and provide all relevant details.

4. Attend Your Appointment (if required)

Depending on how you make contact, you may be scheduled for an appointment with a case manager. This is your opportunity to discuss your situation in detail, provide your documents, and ask any questions. Arrive on time and bring all your prepared documentation.

5. Follow Up

If you haven’t heard back within the expected timeframe, don’t hesitate to follow up with Work and Income. Keep a record of your application date, any reference numbers, and the names of people you’ve spoken with.

What Happens After You Apply?

Once your WINZ food grant application is submitted, a case manager will review your information. They may contact you for further details or clarification. The processing time can vary based on the urgency of your situation and the workload at Work and Income.

If approved, the food grant is typically provided in one of a few ways:

• Payment Card: A payment card (often called a ‘food card’) pre-loaded with funds, usable at approved supermarkets.
• Direct Payment to Supplier: WINZ may pay a specific supermarket directly.
• Cash Payment: In very rare and specific circumstances, a cash payment might be issued.

The case manager will inform you of the amount approved and how you will receive the funds.

What to Do If Your Application is Declined

It can be disheartening if your WINZ food grant application is declined, but it’s important to understand your options and not lose hope.

1. Understand the Reason for Decline:

• Ask your case manager for a clear explanation. Was it due to eligibility criteria, missing documents, or something else?
• Request a written letter outlining the decision and the reasons.

2. Request a Review of the Decision:

If you believe the decision was incorrect or if new information has come to light, you have the right to ask for a review. You can ask for a different case manager or a supervisor to reassess your situation. If still unsatisfied, you can apply for a formal review by a Benefits Review Committee.

3. Seek Advocacy and Support:

Organisations like the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) or community law centres can provide free advice and advocacy. They can help you understand your rights, prepare for a review, or explore alternative solutions.

4. Explore Alternative Food Support:

While pursuing a WINZ review, immediately seek help from local food banks, community food pantries, or charitable organisations. Many provide emergency food parcels regardless of WINZ status.

References & Sources

• Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ). Special Needs Grant – Food. Accessed [Current Date].
• Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ). Eligibility criteria for benefits and payments. Accessed [Current Date].
• Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) New Zealand. Special Needs Grants. Accessed [Current Date].
• Ministry of Social Development (MSD) New Zealand. Factsheets and Reports. Accessed [Current Date].