THE St Vincent de Paul Society is asking Hastings residents to dig deep to help to meet its$1.6 million target for its Winter Appeal.
Between June and August 2013 the St Vincent de Paul Society assisted more than 33,000 people in NSW providing $3.3 million in assistance.
This includes just under $1 million in energy vouchers and cash to help people pay their utility bills.
A further $1.6 million was provided in food assistance during this period, an increase of almost $500,000 for the same period in 2012.
Because of the uncertainty around some of the harsh measures included in the Federal Budget, the society expects to see an increase in demand for assistance over the coming winter months this year, especially with the cold weather only just beginning to hit in the Hastings and some other areas of NSW.
St Vincent de Paul Society NSW president Ray Reynolds said that the generosity of ordinary Australians would make a real difference to the lives of many people facing a very bleak winter.
You can make a donation by visiting vinnies.org.au or by calling 13 18 12.
Those who want to help locally can buy and donate clothing and goods to the St Vincent de Paul op shops.
Shops would particularly appreciate donations of warm men’s clothing.
There are several collection bins around the Hastings and items can also be dropped off at the stores themselves during business hours fo 9am-4pm weekdays and 9am-noon Saturdays.
The Port Macquarie store is located at 116 Gordon Street.
