Three out of four youth work organisations have seen an increase in deprivation among young people in communities they work in.
The National Youth Council of Ireland says a new survey on the cost of living shows inflation and associated deprivation is "taking hold" in many communities.
It is calling for supports for young people and the youth sector in Budget 2024.
The survey of member youth organisations found 67% had experienced an increase in demand for services in the last six months.
Some 75% agreed they had seen an increase in deprivation amongst young people as a result of the increase in the cost of living.
'Effectively homeless'
Many cited an increase in young people presenting in their service, struggling with food poverty and hunger.
One member said: "Young people are arriving at the services cold, hungry and in need of food.
"Families are also arriving at the services as they don't have money to provide food for their children and young people and can't afford to pay bills".
Another member told NYCI: "In three specific cases in the recent months, we have had three young people made effectively homeless due to the rising cost of living and inability to afford accommodation".
'Basic necessities'
NYCI Director of Policy Paul Gordon said more needs to be done.
"It's clear from our second member survey on the cost of living since last Autumn that inflation and associated deprivation are taking hold in many communities.
"Youth organisations are increasingly stepping in to support young people with basic necessities like food.
"While it's not their primary function, youth work organisations often feel compelled to offer these essential supports.
"In Budget 2024, we are urging the Government to provide an additional €9.4 million investment in youth work.
"This will help to meet growing demands on youth work organisations so they can get back to delivering transformational programmes for young people," he added.
