The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) spent a record €41.3 million in 2005 or €794,0000 a week to help people in need, according to its annual report published today.
The society's expenditure was up 6.6 per cent on 2004.
The figures give lie to the widespread belief that there is now no poverty in Ireland, according to SVP national president Brian O'Reilly.
SVP national president Brian O'Reilly
"While grinding, consistent poverty has significantly diminished, beneath the surface it's a different story" he added.
The publication of the SVP's annual report coincides with its annual appeal for €5 million in public donations before Christmas to help meet the costs of its expanding range of services.
"In 2005 our 9,200 volunteers responded to over 300,000 requests for assistance - helping all over Ireland in all sorts of ways" said Mr O'Reilly.
"If we had more money we could do so much more. We are appealing today for an even more generous public response to help fund our work for the current winter period and give a positive start to our work for 2007," he added.
During 2005, the SVP gave €7.6 million in cash assistance, spent €4.6 million on food supplies, €3.1 million on fuel costs, €2.5 million on education, €1.8 million on holiday breaks and outings and €1 million on clothing and furniture.
"As the cost of living starts to rise again and inflation is up, the cost of just maintaining SVP services will be higher still for this year" according to Mr O'Reilly.
The Society has identified five key indicators of poverty in its report that are causing it particular concern. These include the number of households on waiting lists for social housing; the health services waiting list; the high number of early school leavers and the 100,000 children living in consistent poverty.
SVP Appeal Week runs from 3rd to 10th December with countrywide collections on Sunday 10th December.
Donations can be made locally. Credit card donations can also be made to SVP on 1890 251206 or through its website www.svp.ie. Cheques or postal orders can also be sent to SVP Head Office, 8 New Cabra Road, Dublin 7.