General News
12 June, 2023
Uniting appeals for warm hearts
Uniting Wimmera has launched a regionwide appeal to help provide much-needed winter warmth for the most vulnerable people in the community. Skyrocketing energy prices and pressure on housing have exacerbated the cost of living crisis, with the...
Uniting Wimmera has launched a regionwide appeal to help provide much-needed winter warmth for the most vulnerable people in the community.
Skyrocketing energy prices and pressure on housing have exacerbated the cost of living crisis, with the result that more people have been turning to Uniting for help.
Uniting is now seeking new blankets, swags, tents and bedding donations, including pillows, doonas, winter clothes, thermal flasks and non-perishable food for its Winter Blanket Appeal.
Uniting team leader of homelessness, Belinda Gilpin, said anyone in the region who needed assistance was welcome to contact them for support.
"We're the central entry point of all the five shire councils of the Wimmera," Ms Gilpin said.
"People from Warracknabeal, Horsham, Dimboola, Rainbow, Jeparit and the surrounding towns can call us and we'll find a way to provide them with the required items."
Anyone needing warm clothing or other items can call in to the Horsham office to pick them up.
"We have a rack full of warm clothes near the reception; anyone in need can come and get what they want," Ms Gilpin said.
"If they need pantry items, they need to see a worker.
"We're also connected with the Christian Emergency Food Centre if anyone needs food."
People in need in the Wimmera region can get assistance by calling the Uniting Horsham office on 5362 4000.
"Don't hesitate to call us because we know how difficult it is for people, especially in winter and with the rising cost of living," Ms Gilpin said.
Uniting Wimmera senior manager homelessness Adam Liversage said the current period was difficult for many members of society.
"This is a time of great uncertainty," he said.
"There are more people living on the streets, in cars and in poverty, having to make impossible choices between the basics such as paying the rent and putting food on the table."
Donations can be made online at unitingvictas.org.au/local-winter or by buying an e-gift card.
The Uniting Wimmera office is at 85 Baillie Street in Horsham.