Vinnies seeing big jump in people seeking help this winter

Northern youth and community manager Samantha Grace and northern regional president Rosie Caelli

St Vincent de Paul Society has seen an 18% increase in Tasmanians seeking emergency relief assistance so far this year, compared to the same time last year.

It comes at a time when their volunteer members are seeing cost of living pressures bite, particularly as people stuggle to pay rent and other bills.

The Society is currently raising money for their 2024 Winter Appeal and State President Corey McGrath is asking the community to come together and support them in any way they can.

“We have seen just over 3,500 Tasmanians come through our doors since January this year, compared to 2,900 at the same time last year,” Mr McGrath said.

“All donations to the Winter Appeal go directly to providing emergency food hampers and food vouchers, financial assistance with mounting and escalating bills, funding for prescriptions for vital medication, and blankets and clothing to keep people warm and cosy during winter.

“We also continue to offer vital emotional comfort and support at a time of crisis, together with connections to other local support services such as financial counselling and legal advice. We help navigate a complex system to help those in distress explore access to suitable accommodation.

"We are always so grateful for every single dollar donated, which we use to help so many Tasmanians in unimaginable distress. Your gift will do so much. Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those who are struggling during these challenging times,” he said.

Vinnies’ frontline volunteer members witness the impact of these crises first-hand. Each day they work from hubs across Tasmania to support those needing emergency relief and it is only through donations from kind supporters that Vinnies can provide critical assistance to so many Tasmanians in need.

The Society’s Northern Regional President Rosie Caelli said while there had been a long term trend of seeing women over the age of 55 increasingly seek help, she is now seeing people in their 30s reach out too, such are the cost of living pressures being experienced at the moment.

“Just one change in a person’s life can see them go into crisis and need help, from things like illness, family breakdown or loss of employment,” Ms Caelli said.

“The end of the financial year also sees a lot of people having to wear an increase in the rent they pay, so it is July when they start seeking help from us, which is happeing more and more.

“Vinnies is working hard to reduce the number of Tasmanians having to spend sleepless nights in a tent, car, or in insecure accommodation. We know that Vinnies is often the lynchpin in ensuring individuals and families can remain in the safety of their homes.”

Donations to the St Vincent de Paul Society Winter Appeal can be made by calling 13 18 12 or online at https://donate.vinnies.org.au/winter-appeal. All donations over $2 are tax-deductible and will go directly towards aiding Tasmanians in need.