Give a hand up this Christmas and donate to the Vinnies Christmas Appeal

With Christmas just two weeks away, the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW is urging the community to give a hand up this Christmas as demand for assistance continues to soar throughout the community.

The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW has set a target of more than $1.3 million for its annual Christmas Appeal, which will go towards supporting families and individuals impacted by cost-of-living pressures. Funds raised will be used to provide people with food and clothing, pay household bills, cover rental increases as well as fund frontline services including homelessness services and domestic and family violence refuges.

“Demand for assistance is increasing and it is vital that we reach our target for the Vinnies Christmas Appeal to ensure that we are able to provide the support people require in their time of need,” said Yolanda Saiz, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW CEO.

“Every single day we are seeing people reaching out for assistance because the cost of living is stretching people to breaking points. Far too many Australians are having to make difficult choices each day about which bills to pay, how to keep a roof over their head or how they will ensure their children don’t go to bed on an empty stomach.

“If you are able to spare a thought for those people at the brink this Christmas and make a donation to the Vinnies Christmas Appeal, it will help us make such a difference in someone’s life at this time of year,” said Ms Saiz.

The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW supported more than 87,000 people over the past year; with one-in-three people seeking assistance for the first time.

“Everyone is being impacted in some way by the rising cost of living, but the biggest burden is being felt by those already feeling the pinch,” said Paul Burton, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW State Council President.

“Our members and volunteers are working in communities right now in the lead up to Christmas to support people facing hardship. We are here to help with material assistance but one of the most important roles they play is being a shoulder to lean on and listening to what people are going through.

“Donating to the Vinnies Christmas Appeal is a small act that can make a big impact for people doing it tough,” said Mr Burton.

To donate to the Vinnies Christmas Appeal, visit www.vinnies.org.au or call 13 18 12. All donations over $2 are tax-deductible.