Disturbing new Roy Morgan research being released by the Salvos shows a very alarming increase in the number of children who will not get a Christmas present this year.
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The new research shows 1.6 million Australians with children under the age of 10 cannot provide a Christmas present to their children this year.
In comparison to last year’s figures, this is a massive increase of more than 1 million people.
The new research also shows 735,000 Australians know 10 or more families who will face financial hardship/poverty this Christmas, 13.1 million Australians know people who will be lonely this Christmas and 9.5 million Australians say paying for Christmas is getting harder and harder.
Local Grenfell Salvation Army Corps Leader Heather Horneman has confirmed that there has been a significant rise in local families requiring welfare assistance this December compared to last year.
“We have definitely noticed an increase in the number of families requiring welfare assistance this Christmas in our local community,” said Mrs Horneman.
“We are fortunate here in the Weddin Shire compared to some of the larger towns and cities who are struggling with high rental costs as well as high energy bills,
“These figures, although alarming, are not surprising as families struggle to cope with day to day expenses let alone the added pressure that Christmas can bring,
“We would like to encourage anyone wishing to donate food items this year to consider the product they are donating, while all donations are gratefully accepted people doing it tough don’t want items like canned baked beans or soup on the table on Christmas day,
“We ask that donations be something a little more appetising for Christmas lunch/ dinner such as tinned pineapple, spam, plums or pasta.” Mrs Horneman said.
Grenfell Salvation Army officers are accepting donations at their Main Street store or the George Street Hall, toys and clothing are also needed.
A Christmas morning service will be conducted at 9 am. All welcome.
For members of the public wishing to donate nationally to this great cause and help those less fortunate this Christmas they can contact 13 72 58 or visit https://salvos.org.au/donate/make-a-donation/donate-online.
