There has been a lot more focus on housing and homelessness again this winter, with the colder weather sparking a surge of interest in the issue from media outlets, especially The Mercury.
This awful situation is definitely getting worse, with a lot of organisations, including Hobart City Mission now
starting to notice more and more employed people seeking Emergency Assistance, as they cannot pay for food and bills despite having jobs. Hobart City Mission is currently assisting 2500 people per year through our Emergency Assistance program, with food packs, financial counselling, and help with warm clothing and bedding. But we are still turning away 1200 people per year. While we are striving to reduce that to zero, we are, as always, restricted by a lack of resources.
Our Winter Appeal this year is focused on raising money for Emergency Assistance services, and it includes matched giving for the first time ever (see article in this newsletter). So please do your best to support the Winter Appeal this year, in the knowledge that your donations will be doubled, and will be helping families and children most in need during the colder winter months.
