Sandra Rankin, Home-Start Falkirk manager, believes the benefit system and job opportunities must be addressed.
She said: “We have seen a rise in child poverty for many years.
“For families, the main causes have been changes to the benefit system and a lack of opportunity for training and employment for parents.
“We support the most vulnerable and disadvantaged families across Falkirk and they are the ones who are being disproportionately affected financially.
“No parent should face a decision on whether to heat their home or feed their child, buy shoes for school or stay at home so the family can all eat for the next few days. This is often the choice faced by parents experiencing real financial hardship.