Kellie's Story

Kellie from Merimbula was experiencing serious setbacks. She had just had her pancreas removed and was recovering from major surgery.

A week out from her surgery Kellie was told she had to move out of her house. So post-surgery, Kellie packed her car, two kids, pets and headed down the coast. Spending all her money on their urgent needs and the rest on staying in hotels as a respite from the brutality of camping and giving herself an opportunity to recover.

Arriving in Merimbula after travelling from Cowra, Kellie headed to Vinnies to seek assistance. Kellie was eventually helped into a community housing group.

Then hardship struck again. Kellie’s pension was cut when her son was too old, and she was disqualified from receiving the assistance. Combine this with $1000 energy bills, Kellie was impacted yet again.

Vinnies stepped in to help again with power, food, and energy bills. “I’ve had a couple of tough stints and Vinnies really helped me.”

Kellie was also shown some love and compassion from Vinnies when the festive season swung around.

“The Christmas hampers are such a help to make Christmas so much better for the kids.”

With the help of Vinnies and a listening ear down in Merimbula, Kellie’s luck started to change.

“I gradually got back on my feet. I’ve got a part time job, go to the gym regularly and can afford to buy things.”

“Now that I’m getting better at helping myself, I don’t need Vinnies anymore.”

Kellie speaks very highly of the support that Vinnies gave her.

“They taught me how to budget, get back into workforce, be an everyday person and not worry about the stressors and worries of every day bills and food etc.”

“Vinnies helped me step up to the plate.”

 “I’d still be in major debt without their help.”

Now Kellie is back on her own two feet. “I don’t need Vinnies anymore, so I can look after myself and let them help people who need them more,” she describes.

“I have a beautiful unit, I’m in front with all of my bills, I have a great friendship with my friends and all of the people at Vinnies.”

Kellie wants to re-assure that people should not be afraid to ask for help.

 “Please don’t be afraid, doesn’t matter who you are- they are there for you, to help you to help yourself.”

“Anyone is welcome at Vinnies, even if you want a cuppa or just somebody to talk to.”

Kellie also speaks on the importance of donations and financial support from those who can. She urges people to donate if they have the means to.

“The donations mean a massive amount to people who don’t have anything, especially this year, if anybody wants to donate or can, give what you can- every little bit helps and there are so many little children that are disadvantaged that won’t get anything at Christmas.”