LOCAL charities report more people are asking for assistance as the winter chill becomes more acute.
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Port Macquarie Youth Hub manager Michael Gilmore said the last month had been "really busy".
The Youth Hub supports young people in the Hastings aged 12-25.
It operates a shower and a laundry service three times a week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8am-10am).
"We have had triple the increase for assistance for welfare," Mr Gilmore said.
Mr Gilmore said young people accessing the shower and laundry service are usually couch surfing or sleeping rough.
"In winter they get cold and sick," he said.
"In summer they seem to have other options."
Mr Gilmore said they were in need of more blankets, plastic sheeting and tarps.
"Any swags or sleeping bags would help too," he added.
St Vincent de Paul's North Coast executive officer Michael Timbrell said problems usually arise at the end of the winter for older clients.
"When people start receiving their winter energy bill in August-September there is usually an influx of people coming in," Mr Timbrell said.
"A lot of those cheaper heaters are very inefficient."
Mr Timbrell said the 50 swags the organisation had for Port Macquarie had been given away as had around 300 blankets.
And it seems the winter chill can also affect your mood.
Try and get some sunshine on to your skin
- Di Bannister
As part of Homelessness Week (August 5-9) New Horizons and fellow community organisations will host a pay-it-forward event at the Glasshouse Forecourt on August 5.
They are seeking donations including tarpaulins, backpacks, small padlocks, wet weather jackets, underwear, beanies and personal hygiene items.
Di Bannister from Lifeline Mid Coast said the winter season can lead to 'Seasonal Affective Disorder'.
"It is a loss of pleasure in things that you might usually enjoy," Ms Bannister said.
"Feeling hopeless, lacking energy, changes in sleeping or eating patterns."
She advised people to try and go outside more often.
"Ask a family member or friend to go for a walk with you," Ms Bannister said.
"Try and get some sunshine on to your skin.
"Yoga or relaxation or outdoor exercises is great."