Vinnies Winter Appeal highlights the new face of disadvantage

The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW has launched its annual Vinnies Winter Appeal highlighting the changing face of disadvantage and poverty in Australia that now includes more people in jobs.

The combined housing and cost of living crises means that many people, who in previous years would have been able to sustain themselves, are now having to turn to charity to keep a roof over their heads, put food on the table or pay for bills.

Nearly one million people in NSW are living in poverty, around 13% of the population. Of these, more than one-quarter have a job. Of the 35,000 people who were experiencing homelessness in NSW at the last Census, around 40% were employed in either part-time or full-time jobs.

“We are seeing high levels of demand from all sections of the community, including a notable increase in people in employment who are facing housing insecurity, financial pressures and even homelessness for the first time,” said Yolanda Saiz, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW CEO.

This year, the Society has already surpassed the number of people assisted in the past financial year. With housing costs representing the biggest cost of living item in most family budgets, it is unsurprising that nearly half of the people assisted are in housing stress. While the proportion of people seeking assistance who are homeless or in temporary accommodation has risen from 19% to 30% over the past two years.

“People from many walks of life are finding themselves with no money left at the end of pay week to cover the rent, to pay the electricity bills, or to afford food for their kids. Our services report that families with children are being given tents to live in due to the lack of available accommodation,” said Ms Saiz.

Funds raised through the Vinnies Winter Appeal will be used to fund our core programs including supporting people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and also people struggling with poverty and cost-of-living pressures. 

“During these tough economic times, people across NSW are struggling. Our Society’s members and our services provide much needed assistance to people in need. Funds raised from the Vinnies Winter Appeal will play a vital role in ensuring that our members and services have the capacity to continue supporting people in their time of need,” said John Adams, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Acting State President.

“Your support of the Vinnies Winter Appeal will help to ensure that we can make the difference to keep a family in their home, find pathways to housing or provide them with direct material assistance such as food and help with bills,” said Mr Adams.

Donations can be made at www.vinnies.org.au, on 13 18 12 and at all Vinnies Shops.

Donations $2 and over are tax deductible.