Help Vinnies support struggling families this Christmas

With Christmas just days away, Vinnies is calling on the community to support those doing it tough by donating to its annual Christmas Appeal.

The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW relies on community donations to provide food, clothing and other essentials for struggling families, including many who have had to seek assistance for the first time due to COVID-19. The charity is urging people to give generously to ensure it remains on track to reach its Christmas Appeal target of just under $1 million.

“Between bushfires, coronavirus and the financial uncertainty many people are facing, the need for our help is greater than ever,” said Yolanda Saiz, Acting CEO of St Vincent de Paul NSW.

During the Christmas season, Vinnies has distributed food hampers, food vouchers and financial assistance to thousands of families, as well as small gifts for kids throughout the state.

“Christmas should be a joyful time for people to come together but, with the imminent cut to JobSeeker, thousands are going to do it especially tough,” Ms Saiz said.

“In the past year, almost half the people who sought assistance from Vinnies didn’t have enough food. Australia is such a compassionate and generous country, which is why it’s so distressing to know people are having to choose between putting enough food on the table or having presents underneath the tree.”

A recent report from The Australia Institute suggests the Government’s decision to wind back the JobSeeker support payment just days after Christmas will push an additional 51,000 people in NSW into poverty.

“If you are in a position to do so, please support those doing it tough this Christmas by donating to Vinnies,” Ms Saiz said.

Donations can be made at www.vinnies.org.au, on 13 18 12 and at all Vinnies Shops. Donations over $2 are tax-deductible.

Media contact: Lachlan Jones | 0417 446 430