Editorial: Nation deserves better than this

Food parcel usage is one of the easier, albeit unscientific, ways to gauge the needs of the underprivileged in our society.
Every month, new figures reveal the extent of the demand from those who are unable to put food on the table themselves. And as revealed in the Wanganui Chronicle over the weekend, there still seems to be no easy solution to the problem.
The latest figures, released by City Mission's Shirley-Joy Barrow, show 170 food parcels were distributed in July, that is 16 more than the month before and 82 more than in January.
This year, there have been 264 more "first-time" parcels handed out than in the year before. More than 1000 adults are now receiving food parcels, and 926 children rely on the mission for help.
Statistics can be easily manipulated but the trend from the raw data is clear - more people are struggling to make ends meet than ever before, and the solutions that have so far been thrown at the issue clearly aren't working.
Particularly in an election year, it's easy for this issue to become something of a political football.
What's more, the kicking has already begun.
The Government has long made all the right noises, claiming its much-vaunted tax cuts will make a difference to New Zealand families, while Labour undoubtedly hopes its policy to make fresh fruit and vegetables tax-free will gain it some political traction.
But the harsh reality is that neither of the main political parties has even come close to addressing this issue and that, down on the breadline, struggling families don't care about politicians and their proposals - they care about putting food on the table.
Organisations such as the City Mission have long relied on the generosity of the public.
But it's now tougher than ever for the public to keep up that level of generosity. As more and more families begin to feel the effects of the recession, it's natural and understandable for them to turn their attention to home before considering helping out others.
Then there are the many, various Canterbury earthquake appeals, which, while undeniably worthwhile, have also siphoned away much of the disposable income from those people inclined to give financial assistance to others.
A cynic would suggest the dearth of real political solutions to this problem stems from the fact it's not traditionally a vote-grabber.
But it's not just those who are struggling who deserve better from our political leaders.
As a country, we deserve better and, as the days count down to this year's general election, it will be fascinating to see which political parties step up to the challenge.
Feedback: editor@wanganuichronicle.co.nz