Child Poverty Crisis Hits Disabled Kids Hard | Auckland News

Child poverty in New Zealand is spiraling, with over 200,000 kids now living below the poverty line — and disabled children face a staggering 4.5x higher risk. Advocates say real numbers are even worse, as many families fear judgment and avoid seeking help. Glen McMillan, a disability advocate with lived experience, warns that slashed support services are forcing families to choose between food and essential care like special diapers or diets costing $90 weekly. He calls for reforms to benefit thresholds and criticizes the new Disability Support Services Bill as a step backward. Meanwhile, the government insists the bill brings clarity without changing who gets help — but critics argue it ignores the rising cost of living and deepening inequality. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/97a7e6f995552151