Vinnies Tasmania calls on community to give as back-to-school costs push families to breaking point

The St Vincent de Paul Society Tasmania is calling on the community to give generously to its 2026 School Essentials Appeal, as rising back-to-school costs place increasing pressure on local families already struggling with the cost of living.

With expenses such a uniforms, shoes, backpacks, stationary arriving all at once, many Tasmanian families are being pushed to breaking point as school expenses arrive.

St Vincent de Paul Society Tasmania Chief Executive Officer Connie Digolis said the School Essentials Appeal was a vital lifeline for families at one of the most financially challenging time of the year.

“Every child deserves to walk into school feeling confident, included and ready to learn,” she said.

“Too many Tasmanian children will be starting the school year without the basics because families are under enormous financial pressure.

“Our data from last year shows that as the 2025 school year began, Vinnies Tasmania saw a sharp increase in families needing help.

“This time last year over a two month period, more than 6,300 people were assisted through emergency relief with more than one-third of households being sole parents, 91 per cent relied solely on Centrelink and around 40 per cent were living with disability.

“Parents are making impossible choices between groceries and school shoes, or paying the power bill and buying a backpack,” Ms Digolis said.

“When families come to us, they are often already stretched to the limit and back to school costs can push them into crisis.”

Many families seeking help report that school costs are the tipping point after months of rising rent, food and utility expenses.

“Through the School Essentials Appeal, Vinnies provides practical support including uniforms, shoes, backpacks, lunchboxes, stationary and assistance with school activities, helping ensure children can attend school with dignity and confidence.

“Our Members and volunteers see first-hand how much it means when a child can walk into the classroom feeling just as prepared as their peers.”

While Vinnies Tasmania is incredibly grateful for the generosity of donors across the community, the need for support remains high.

“Because of our supporters, hundreds of Tasmanian children have been able to start the school year prepared,” Ms Digolis said.

“But the cost-of-living crisis hasn’t eased and more families continue to reach out for help.

“We still need the community’s support to ensure every Tasmanian child has the opportunity to take full advantage of their education during these formative years.”

Society Southern Regional President, Louise Wilson said demand for assistance was already increasing as back-to-school costs began to mount.

“Our Members work incredibly hard to create welcoming spaces where parents can access essential back-to-school items while being treated with the dignity and respect they deserve,” she said.

“Every Tasmanian child should be able to return to school feeling prepared and confident so I urge everyone to give what they can to the appeal.

“Last year’s School Essentials Appeal made a real difference for families across Tasmania, and this year with the support of the community we can again help ease the pressure by providing school essentials, food assistance and vouchers during a financially stressful time.

Donations to the School Essentials Appeal stay in Tasmania and directly support local children and families.

To donate or learn more, visit www.vinniestas.org.au, call 13 18 12 or donate in person at any Vinnies store statewide.