Cost of living crisis hits Canberra’s vulnerable hard
Gowrie Vinnies conference member Paula Bounds said Vinnies support was essential for many Canberrans during Christmas.
As the cost of living increases – and Christmas approaches – Tania, a single mother of three, is trying to stretch her limited finances even further.
“I work out how much money I’ve got per day for the fortnight,” she said.
“I have to pay for medication, which is $20, but that’s $20 I also need for fuel or food. I look at my kids, and that’s why I keep going.”
After multiple challenges, including relationship breakdown, mental health diagnosis and poverty, Tania reached out to Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn for assistance.
The 2024 cost-of-living report by ACTCOSS reveals that Canberra has seen above-inflation price increases over the past five years, including 20% for food, 22.4% for medical services, and 22% for housing. Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn CEO Lucy Hohnen stated that low-income households have been hit hardest by these rising costs.
“Imagine the emotional pressure these families go through, having to go without nutritional meals to cover the cost of prescription medication,” she said.
Vinnies Family Services helped Tania find safe, long-term accommodation and assisted with pharmacy bills, food, clothes, and Christmas gifts.
“Watching my children’s faces light up while making Christmas breakfast and opening presents is so exciting for them.” “My present is seeing my kids happy, Tania shared.”
Gowrie Vinnies conference volunteer Paula Bounds said Vinnies’ support was essential, especially during Christmas.
“Many charities will close down between the Christmas and New Year period, and that’s usually when people we assist need food the most,” she said.
“Volunteer members from Vinnies pack Christmas Hampers with food staples, pancake batter, pudding, festive treats, and gifts,” Paula said, noting that Tania’s situation is not unusual. “Many assume everyone in Canberra is a public servant and doing fine.”
The rising cost of living is severely affecting many people, leaving them unable to afford rent, fuel, and food. A new group of the “working poor” has emerged, many of whom previously managed without charity support. Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn is seeking to raise $360,000 for its 2024 Christmas Appeal to provide urgent assistance to struggling individuals and families.
“It’s a community coming together,” Tania said.
“I always thought I was just a number, but no, I’m a family and Vinnies have taken me under their wings and they’re helping me.”
To donate call 13 18 12 or visit: https://donate.vinnies.org.au/christmas-appeal-act
*Name has been changed to protect privacy.