Unprecedented calls for help
Local
Rising costs of living, a skyrocketing real estate market, coupled with the impact of domestic violence, are all contributing to an unprecedented number of calls from people asking for help from the St Vincent de Paul Society.
Launching its Winter Appeal this month, Vinnies SA CEO Michelle Kemp described the current situation as the “perfect storm” and called on South Australians to dig deep to help those who are experiencing disadvantage.
“Our call centre team is taking an unprecedented amount of calls from people asking for help, with the majority in need of food,” Ms Kemp said.
“When people in our community can’t access this basic right, there is a big problem.
“We are witnessing a perfect storm in terms of the rising costs of living – the price of food and petrol are just two everyday expenses that are soaring – with no relief in sight. Coupled with a skyrocketing real estate market that is seeing rental payments increase by up to 10 per cent, we are hearing from more people who have never had to rely on a charity just to make ends meet.”
Ms Kemp said money donated to the appeal would also provide much-needed assistance to women and children impacted by family and domestic violence. In the past year, the Vinnies Women’s Crisis Centre has assisted more than 1000 women and children.
“Domestic violence is now the number one cause of homelessness for women, and our assistance to women and children escaping domestic and family violence includes providing emergency accommodation at the Vinnies Women’s Crisis Centre, where we provide a safe environment for sound decision-making,” she said.
“Once women are ready to exit the centre we help them get back on their feet by supplying furniture and household goods, food and other essentials, and providing support to find and maintain secure housing.”
Beyond the Vinnies Winter Appeal, the Society is also gearing up for the annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout being held at the SA Museum on June 23.
More than 100 South Australian business and community leaders – including Premier Peter Malinauskas who will participate in the event for the sixth time – have committed to sleeping out in the elements for one night to raise funds and awareness for Vinnies’ homelessness services.
Winter Appeal donations can be made at www.vinnies.org.au/donate, on 131812 or at all Vinnies Shops.
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