Vinnies Stores close state-wide until April 28, effective immediately

The St. Vincent de Paul Society, Tasmania (Vinnies) has announced the temporary closure of its remaining 13 Vinnies shops across Tasmania until April 28, 2020 (with only the Queenstown shop remaining open at this stage).

The Society’s CEO, Lara Alexander, said that while she regretted the closures, even charities are being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and that everyone must proactively assist the government to limit the spread of the virus in any way possible.

“Vinnies stores are more than just shops where our customers can find a bargain, they are also community hubs where people tend to gather. Many of these people, including a number of our staff and volunteers are in the high-risk group, so we are mindful of their safety and their welfare,” Mrs Alexander said.

“While we anticipate being closed until April 28, we will be reviewing the decision on a weekly basis in compliance with the State Government advice. Vinnies Stores will reopen at the soonest opportunity.

“While Vinnies public presence will be curtailed, the very crucial work we deliver quietly in the background will continue. Vinnies will still offer hope and assistance to the vulnerable and those in need in our communities across Tasmania via our emergency assistance, financial counselling, homelessness, mental health, and community housing programmes.

“However, Tasmanians in need and the vulnerable in our communities will bear the brunt of the current COVID-19 crisis if we abandon them in their time of need. Vinnies urgently needs cash donations so we can put distribute food and cover the living costs of the hundreds of individuals and families that rely on Vinnies every day. Judging by the increase in calls, the demand for Vinnies services will only increase over the next three to four months as we head into another chilly winter.

“We at Vinnies are doing our part. We have applied to the State Government for emergency funding to see us through the worst of the months ahead. Every cent of funding we secure from the State Government will be used to help vulnerable Tasmanians.

“However, Vinnies cannot rely on our request being fulfilled, so we need the community to help in any way they can. Please give as much as you can. $40 buys food for a family for a week, $25 pays for groceries to make soup and nourishing food for people sleeping rough, $100 pays for accommodation for a family for another night, or to keep the heating on.

“Vinnies stores might be temporarily closed, but our work never ends. In a crisis, our good works are even more important. Tasmanians by our very nature are generous and sympathetic to the need of the less fortunate. At this extraordinarily challenging time, Vinnies is calling on all Tasmanians to dig deep, donate, and deliver hope to those who need us during the current COVID 19 crisis,” Mrs Alexander said.

Donations to Vinnies can be made by visiting www.vinnies.org.au or by calling 13 18 12.