Vinnies Bushfire Response Continues

The St Vincent de Paul Society continues to distribute funds received through the Vinnies Bushfire Appeal, which was established in response to the current, unprecedented bushfire season.

We have distributed $3.8 million so far from the Vinnies Bushfire Appeal, mostly as direct cash payments for bushfire-impacted households in NSW, Victoria, SA, Queensland and Canberra/Goulburn.

In addition, since the fires began in September 2019, large volumes of food, water, clothing, toiletries, bedding, and other essentials have been provided by Vinnies volunteers in their local communities.

On behalf of the Federal Government, Vinnies is also distributing government Emergency Relief Funds to people in affected communities. In the past fortnight, we have distributed more than $1.1 million nationally to well over 1,000 households.

Our volunteers continue to provide emotional and psychological support as well as financial and material support in the communities in which they work and live.

Assessing people and ensuring the right assistance is provided takes time. Vinnies understands the public sentiment for funds to reach people as quickly as possible, and our volunteers are providing relief to as many communities affected by fires as they can.

We are here for the long term and will offer our support to people and communities as they begin to rebuild their lives.

We extend a heartfelt thanks to the many generous individuals, businesses and community groups who have donated to the Vinnies Bushfire Appeal, which has raised $13.7 million.

For bushfire assistance, please call Vinnies on 13 18 12. Donations to the Vinnies Bushfire Appeal can be made at www.bushfireappeal.com.au.

Media contact: Lachlan Jones  |  0417 446 430