More than any other time of the year, Christmas has always been a time when families and friends want to come together to celebrate.
We decorate our trees and homes, and do a huge grocery shop the week before the festivities begin.
This is Christmas for the lucky ones…
The harsh reality is that many families across the Macarthur region will struggle to provide any sort of Christmas for their children and loved ones.
Imagine a Christmas without family after fleeing from domestic violence.
Or a Christmas without comfort and peace of mind after bills have mounted up.
Can you imagine a Christmas without a home to live in? These are the real challenges facing many individuals and families who are experiencing hardship.
Each year the St Vincent de Paul Society Christmas Appeal provides food, clothes, toys, hampers and more to struggling families, and 2018 will be no different.
Society members who help locals everyday with their expenses have seen first-hand the battle people in our neighbourhoods are facing, and how this usually joyful time of year impacts on those who are struggling to make ends meet.
Vinnies Camden/Wollondilly regional president Jennifer Popov says there are many local families struggling this Christmas.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“The increasing cost of rental properties in our region is a major contributing factor to the ability of families to cope financially.[/social_quote]
“Paying the rent is a priority, but leaves families with little left over once bills are paid,” she said.
“Of course, lack of access to necessary clothing and household items can add extra pressure, and we are very grateful for the generous donations we receive in our shops throughout the year which go a long way towards assisting those in need.”
Local communities can support their fellow residents who are experiencing hardship by donating to the annual Vinnies Christmas Appeal.
Monetary donations help support the purchase of hampers and food, with good quality donations of pre-loved clothes, toys and other saleable goods also welcome.
The generosity of the community will assist many families in the Macarthur region to provide their children with gifts this Christmas through the support of Vinnies.
To donate, visit any Vinnies shop.
Macarthur region shops are located at Macquarie Fields, Minto, Campbelltown, Picton, Tahmoor and The Oaks.
Community members who’d like to financially support the good works of St Vincent de Paul Society NSW can also donate online at https://www.vinnies.org.au/donate
