There’s hard evidence this morning about the wide-reaching impact of the cost-of-living crisis here on the Far South Coast.
St Vincent De Paul Society tells us demand for food and items like sleeping bags and blankets is skyrocketing.
Vinnies Community Engagement Manager Sarah Murdoch said there has been an ever-rising increase over the past six years.
“For obvious reasons COVID, fires, floods. Everything the Far South Coast was hit with since 2020 but now with the cost of living where seeing more companions who wouldn’t ordinarily use our services before,” Ms Murdoch said.
“We’ve also seen those who have used our services before needing to come more often or receive more in one hit because what we can provide them does not stretch as long as it use to with the cost of food, groceries and bills increasing,” she said.
“We’ve had a lot of call outs for more sleeping bags, more doonas, jackets, beanies because the wind off the water can be extremely cold and trying to sleep, get a goods nights sleep with that being around you, is extremely hard and challenging.”
Vinnies have also made a compassionate plea to the local community to help them with providing this increasing support.
“Donations to iur Winter Appeal is always significantly welcome,” Ms Murdoch said.
“That can be done online through vinnies.org.au/winterappeal or by calling 13 18 12,” she said.
“We also take food, donations, everything like that to support our companions on the Far South Coast more.”
