Immediate aid makes a measurable impact

We know that our members make a difference in the lives of thousands of people facing hardship each year. 

Now we have the data to confirm that impact thanks to a landmark report produced by The McKell Institute examining the effectiveness of our emergency relief programs. 

The ‘Immediate Aid, Measurable Impact’ report surveyed 900 people supported by the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW during a 12-month period with respondents expressing strong satisfaction at the compassionate support provided by our members. 

The Executive Summary of the report found that, “Emergency relief services, such as those provided by various charities and community organisations like [St Vincent de Paul] Society NSW, play an essential role in the early intervention space and alleviating poverty, especially during cost of living crises such as that being felt by millions of Australians today.”  

Some of the key findings to come out of the report include: 

• More than 80% of people surveyed felt positively about the emergency relief program delivered by the Society 

• Close to four in five people felt that the support provided had been instrumental in helping them progress towards stability and self-sufficiency 

• 82% identified the support provided by the Society as playing a key role in averting severe issues such as eviction or severe hunger 

• 89% reported that receiving support from the Society had a positive impact on their stress levels and overall well-being 

The report also analysed data recorded by our members between January to December 2023, revealing that over 95,000 people had been supported during that calendar year. Demand from primary people seeking assistance increased by 18% from the previous 12 months, while close to a third of people requested support for the first time. 

In addition to addressing people’s immediate needs, the wrap-around support provided by our members was praised for connecting people with additional services offered by the Society and externally. By connecting people with comprehensive and continuous support, our members can offer a crucial 'hand up', reaching people at their most vulnerable points and assisting to prevent deeper crises. 

Amanda Rishworth, Minister for Social Services, launched the report at our Vinnies Support Centre in Hurstville alongside local Member for Barton Linda Burney. 

The Federal MPs heard from people directly assisted by our members, who expressed their gratitude for knowing that the Society is there in times of need. 

Thank you to all our members who are the heroes behind this research. Your belief in a more just and compassionate society makes a difference to people in need every day. 

See the full ‘Immediate Aid, Measurable Impact’ report