Monday October 16
The demand for help from Anglicare Victoria’s Ballarat Emergency Relief Centre soared by 30 per cent in 2016-17.
The centre’s free community breakfast program served up 9100 free meals compared to 6300 the previous year.
It also provided emergency relief packages to 1180 people, increasing from 946 the previous year.
At the start of Anti-Poverty Week, Anglicare Victoria Community Development Manager Bridget Clarke called on more people to volunteer to help meet the growing demand, especially in the lead-up to Christmas.
“Many people are struggling with homelessness or debt and have run out of food and can’t afford to buy any more.
“Energy and gas bills have skyrocketed and this is seriously affecting vulnerable people on low incomes who are being forced to choose between paying the bills or putting food on the table.
“Rents are increasing, seriously reducing housing affordability and putting more people at risk of becoming homeless.
“The food parcels we provide are critical for people in crisis and provide temporary relief.’’
Anglicare Victoria’s 15 emergency relief centres provided relief to 21,972 people state-wide in 2016-17.
If you would like to volunteer or need help from the team, phone Bridget Clarke on 5338 8651.
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Further enquiries, including photo or interview opportunities, contact:
Media and Communications.
media@anglicarevic.org.au
Tel: 0419 035 117
