MEDIA RELEASE 1 June 2010
FIRST DAY OF WINTER BRINGS SORROW FOR MANY June 1st marks the start of the winter season, three long months of rain, wind and unbearable cold conditions – spare a thought for the 13,391 West Australians who are homeless.
The St Vincent de Paul Society WA is currently responding to hundreds of requests each week for the provision of food, clothing and household goods, as well as an increase for requests to assist with utility bills and rental payments, in a bid to prevent more families from ending up on the streets.
Lucinda Ardagh, St Vincent de Paul Society WA Spokesperson says “we are seeing increases in requests from the community for help with rental payments and utility bills especially. We experienced an 85% increase in the number of utility bill requests in March this year compared to March ‘09 followed by a 45.5% increase in April.”
“With households now having to find an additional $400 each year for the increased fees and charges on utility prices, it’s easy to see how the family’s budgets are stretched beyond control and more than ever, people who have never had to access welfare assistance before are now calling on our services for help,” Lucinda says.
Vinnies in WA visits over 20,000 homes each year, offering food, clothing, bedding, household furniture and items, assistance with rent and utility bills and advocacy, friendship and support.
“The Society also provides 75 beds each night to individuals experiencing homelessness and/or mental illness through the Special Work Vincentcare in locations throughout Perth,” Lucinda says.
Vinnies is urging the community to get behind the 2010 Winter Appeal to reach the target of $600,000 which goes directly back into helping West Australian’s in need.
To donate to the Winter Appeal call 13 18 12 or log on to www.vinnies.org.au Media Contacts: Communications Coordinator: Deana Pullella (08) 9475 5426 or 0404 086 054