Winter woollies sought for needy people and families

TEMPERATURES have dived and the heaters are on.  For Vinnies, that means a call out for blankets, jackets and other warm items to give to people in need.

Vinnies’ Night Patrol vans are still operating every evening, visiting locations around Canberra and Queanbeyan and handing out drinks, sandwiches, fruit, clothing, sleeping bags, blankets and hygiene packs.

Vans are operated by volunteers who foster relationships with people at risk of or experiencing homelessness, and anyone needing friendship and support.

Vinnies has also launched a COVID-19 Crisis Appeal to raise funds to support families and people struggling due to the pandemic.

The charity said the pandemic crisis will increase demand on Vinnies services to help poor and needy families.

“Already we have seen an exponential demand from vulnerable people needing food supplies following panic buying in supermarkets,” a Vinnies spokeswoman said.

Vinnies cannot run an appeal through schools and parishes so is encouraging people to donate online at www.vinnies.org.au/covid19crisisappeal or by calling 13 18 12.

If you have blankets, warm clothes or socks or any other warm items for Vinnies’ Night Patrol, you can take them to your nearest Vinnies shop and let them know the items are for the Night Patrol.

All donations are quarantined for 72 hours before being sorted.

Visit www.vinnies.org.au/shops to see which shops are currently open.