The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) is beginning a major appeal for funds today.
The charity said it had to spend even more last year than in 2004 in fighting poverty and social disadvantage in Ireland.
As it published its 2005 reports ahead of Christmas, it confirmed 9,200 volunteers worked to respond to 300,000 appeals for assistance last year.
A spokesman said: "The Irish public also recognised the need and increased their financial support for SVP work in the year."
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During 2004, the society announced a record expenditure of more than €33.3 million, with €18 million spent on providing basic necessities such as food, clothing, fuel and cash assistance.
Roughly €27.25 million of the charity's income came from the public during 2004.