Emergency relief workers have asked locals to keep an eye on friends and family this Christmas as many Logan residents face “traumatic” levels of financial pain.
Logan Salvation Army Captain Anthony Hunt said Salvos had witnessed an increased number of people requesting assistance for the first time.
“We’re finding a lot of families are, for the first time, realising they might not be able to afford the Christmas they were expecting this year,” Mr Hunt said.
Over the past 12 months, the Logan Central Salvos service has seen more than 1000 unique presentations for support.
“We’ve found people who have not sought our help before are seeking it for the first time,” Mr Hunt said.
“That’s a difficult experience for some people, because they thought they could be self-sufficient and not rely on others.
“But we like to assure people that there is nothing wrong with seeking help – it’s a good thing to do.”
He said Christmas was a particularly tough time for people, especially for parents who “want their kids to enjoy the Christmas experience”.
“But then when your rent goes up unexpectedly or the cost of electricity is more than you’re expecting – and we’ve had families have sudden medical emergencies on top of these increases – you can struggle to find that Christmas joy,” he said.
Young families, single mothers, and older single women are among the most common people seeking help, Mr Hunt said.
“Cost of living increases have had a traumatic impact on people who live in our area.
“With the roll-on effects of rising interest rates and rents, it starts to put pressure on other areas, particularly food.”
“Many people are also experiencing homelessness for the first time.”
Mr Hunt said it was important to “check in” with neighbours.
“Reach out and show them love and care,” he said.
“Check in with people and ask them how they’re going and if there’s anything you can do for them.
“Everyone knows someone, and if you know someone then you probably know someone who’s doing it tough this year.”
He said seemingly small actions could have a big impact.
“When you go to the grocery store buy some non-perishable foods and drop them to a local food bank, if you can afford it.”
Alternatively, toys, toiletries, books, clothing and non-perishable food can be donated to your local Salvos store.
Mr Hunt said it was incredibly rewarding to help vulnerable people in the community.
“It’s good to see people celebrate and have a sense of joy this time of the year – that’s what Christmas is about,” he said.
“We do the best we can with what we have and help as many people as we can.”
To help Salvo’s support locals doing it tough, head to: community.salvationarmy.org.au/o/logan-salvos.
