The Capuchin Day Centre in Dublin has said that around 3,000 food hamper vouchers were given out this morning.
People were queuing up outside the centre since 4am. The hampers are due to be collected next week.
Speaking to RTÉ's News at One, Father Kevin Kiernan, Director at the centre said: "Last year, I think there was 2,600 tickets given out. It is up."
All services at the Capuchin Day Centre have seen numbers increase by 20% across 2023.
On Wednesday mornings, the centre distributes bags of groceries. Fr Kiernan said 1,450 were given out today.
While a broad cross-section of people avail of their services, Fr Kieran said many families need assistance.
"The child attendance service has increased by 50% this year," he said.
"For example, in 2022, 5,200 children came over the year. This year it is 10,384."
"On Monday, we distribute nappies and baby food. Last year, we gave out 5,200 supplies of nappies and baby food. This year, it has gone up to 10,027, so an increase of 48%."
Fr Kiernan said they do not ask people any questions. They just try to give them "two nourishing meals a day".
"Everybody is welcome, that is our policy. The reason they have got the ticket today, is that they will be guaranteed that they do not have to be worrying next week to collect the food voucher for a hamper."
"It is just heartbreaking to see children homeless and hungry and cold," he added.
He said people from around the country, not just Dublin, come to the Day Centre. "People come up to Dublin, and they become homeless, and we are there for them."
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