As the cost in living continues to rise, Logan charities are seeing a higher demand for support.
Salvation Army Corps Officer for Logan, Anthony Hunt said around 350 families in Logan have received support from the Salvation Army this Christmas.
“At Christmas time through our corps and churches in Beenleigh, Logan Central and Calamvale around 350 families receive direct support through The Salvation Army in our Christmas Cheer programs,” he said.
“This year we have seen a quicker uptake of support for Christmas from many people seeking our help for the first time due to increased cost of living pressures.”
Mr Hunt said although donation drives are wrapping up for the year you can still donate items that can help others, even into the new year.
“As cost-of-living increases continue to put pressure of household budgets some of the most important things is providing non-perishable foods that people will want to eat like tins of baked beans, pasta and sauces.”
“Often older children are forgotten at Christmas time. Donations of things like movie vouchers help offer older kids a chance to have some experiences over the school holidays that may be out of reach due to the pressures on household budgets.”
“Overall hygiene products are often something that people do not think to donate in general. Ready access to deodorant, bodywash, oral care products and women’s sanitary products makes a massive difference to people physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.”
Woodridge resident, Jenny Borrows said she and her family have received donations in the past.
“Whilst this year we have been a lot better off; we have relied on donations in the past and especially at Christmas time,” she said.
“With three younger children and my husband on a pension it was very difficult for us to afford food and presents for everyone, so the donations of food and toys were much appreciated.”
“Being in a better situation this year we donated where we could, canned foods, hygiene products and some toys for the kids.”
Ms Borrows said something as small as a mini-Christmas pudding, can brighten someone’s Christmas.
Mr Hunt said if donating isn’t a possibility, there are other ways to help.
“People also need to know that their neighbours care about them, so if you have the means and know someone who might be having a hard time this Christmas, reach out to them,” he said.
“Offering even a listening ear can make a huge difference to people at this time of year.”
The Salvos emergency assistance line will be closed the week following Christmas but will reopen on January 3.
