Hunger on the rise: thousands turn to Vinnies Vans for food relief

More than 115,000 people turned to the Vinnies Vans for food support in the past year, increasing by 13%, as poverty drives soaring demand for the most basic of needs.

As Anti-Poverty Week (October 12–18) begins, the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW has revealed that food assistance is the number one request for help across the state.

The Society NSW operates 13 Vinnies Vans across Sydney and regional NSW, with 106 runs a week to provide food, connection and referrals to other services.

“It is shocking that so many people are being forced to choose between a roof over their head or food. Our Vinnies Vans are a lifeline for so many people, often they’re the difference between someone going hungry or eating that day,” said Yolanda Saiz, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW CEO.

“We should not accept poverty as an unfortunate but unavoidable part of life. Government, service providers and the wider community must work together to ensure that everyone can live with dignity,” said Ms Saiz.

Figures released by Anti-Poverty Week show that 1 in 7 adults and 1 in 6 children are currently living below the poverty line in Australia. The Australian Bureau of Statistics found that over 1 in 8 Australian households experience food insecurity.

The Society NSW distributed more than $15.1 million in financial and material aid over the last year throughout the state, including $6.5 million in food vouchers, $1.9 million in food parcels and $1 million in Christmas hampers.

“In a nation as fortunate as Australia, it is unacceptable that anyone should be left without food on the table or a safe place to call home,” said Peter Houweling, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW State Council President.

“Our members meet people facing hardship every day, providing immediate relief through food while also working alongside them to understand and work on the longer-term support they need. 

“We call on leaders to act with courage and compassion, driving the structural change needed to end poverty and ensure every individual can live with dignity,” said Mr Houweling.

Vinnies Vans operate every night across NSW. To volunteer, donate or access support, visit www.vinnies.org.au/vinniesvans.