Businesses and organisations in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area have rallied to support the Vinnies Christmas Appeal, with donations including toys, food hampers, and toiletry-comfort packs for people doing it tough.
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Hastings Regional President of St Vincent de Paul Society, Jeff Downie, said the response has been heart-warming.
Mr Downie, a Lake Cathie resident, coordinates the Vinnies Conferences in Port Macquarie, Kempsey, Wauchope and Laurieton that assist families and individuals at risk of falling through the social safety net.
“The three local NRMA offices are fundraising for us, which is greatly appreciated given how many people they come into contact with. Ray White Real Estate is also supporting us, while the Tacking Point Tavern has erected a big Christmas tree and is encouraging patrons to drop off gift-wrapped presents,” he said.
Mr Downie estimated that at least 200 gifts would be left under the tree before Christmas. These will be distributed through the Vinnies Conferences and to residents of McCosker House, the Society’s crisis accommodation in Port Macquarie.
The latest donations come from the Port Macquarie Women’s Shed, which has collated toiletry and personal care packs for both women and men. The packs include toothbrushes and toothpaste, moisturisers, sanitary pads and tampons, soap, bodywash and other items.
“It’s gratifying to know that the Vinnies name is so well regarded in the community. Our Conferences and op shops are run by volunteers, and all donated money or goods are guaranteed to reach deserving hands this Christmas. Even at this early stage, a fortnight out from Christmas, we’d like to say a big ‘thank-you’ to everyone who’s helping us”.
Mr Downie also praised the efforts of local schools, including St Joseph’s Primary School’s Mini Vinnies group and Laurieton Primary School.
“It’s heartening to see young people making great efforts to provide a brighter Christmas for people less fortunate than themselves.”
He said that while most residents find the North Coast a delightful place to live, the downside is that every council area has a child poverty rate of around 20 per cent, with rental affordability a chronic problem.
“In Port Macquarie-Hastings many families are struggling to cover their daily needs. The latest figures show that 34 per cent of households are experiencing housing stress, which is defined as spending more than one-third of household income on rent.
“This leaves them scraping to buy adequate food, cover electricity bills, their kids’ school needs, and other essentials, let alone to afford luxuries such as Christmas gifts and food treats. That’s why the work we do is so important, and why all the help we receive is appreciated.”
