Asylum Seekers Support Trust

(Photo sourced from Asylum Seekers Support Trust website, 2026).

Asylum Seekers Support Trust (ASST), established in 1989, is Aotearoa’s only charity dedicated to supporting people seeking asylum.

Those seeking asylum in New Zealand face many challenges. Many are separated from family members who may still be facing difficult circumstances. They need to find housing, access food and financial support, get around without reliable transport, and navigate the claims process. Finding work and settling into a new community takes time and resources. 

ASST helps people navigate this period by providing support such as emergency housing, food, financial assistance and transport. They also advocate and raise awareness of the challenges asylum seekers can face as they build a new life in Aotearoa.

ASST’s partnership with Fair Food supports the distribution of 150 food parcels every week. In the past 12 months, Fair Food has supplied ASST with 26,157 kilograms of food. This equates to a week's worth of kai for 2,768 people. Having access to good food doesn’t solve the complex issues of starting over in a new country, but is one less thing to worry about.

You can support the Asylum Seekers Support Trust through direct donations and by keeping up to date on their social media. Donating can ensure ASST maintains support for those seeking asylum in Aotearoa.

Website: https://shop.asst.org.nz/

Instagram: @Asylumseekersnz

Facebook: Asylum Seekers Support Trust