Vinnies calls for Winter clothing donations amidst rising demand

VINNIES is urging Australians to donate warm winter clothing and blankets as the cost-of-living crisis drives more people to seek second-hand options, leading to increased demand and dwindling supplies.

Regional manager Paula McCormack said it was shaping up to be one of the worst winters she had seen.

“In retail, it’s the lack of winter clothing that’s the worst I’ve seen,” Ms McCormack said.

Mary Coleman has been volunteering at Vinnies Ballina for 47 years. Photo: DAVID COPE

“I was in the Ballina store the other day, and everything is summer.

“We just don’t have enough winter stock. We don’t have enough blankets, jackets, knitwear, things like that.

“We have put a call back to the community to see if we can get more in.”

In the Northern Rivers, over $1.5 million in financial and material assistance was provided in the last financial year, helping more than 9,000 people.

In addition to winter clothing and donations, the organisation was putting the call out for more volunteers. Photo: DAVID COPE

Among those seeking help, 81 per cent needed food assistance, 40 per cent required accommodation, and 45 per cent were experiencing housing stress.

Notably, one-third of those seeking assistance this winter were doing so for the first time.

“In the retail shops, our purpose is to sell to raise funds to support the programs and services,” Ms McCormack said.

“But if someone is in need, they can see one of our service providers and get a family assistance voucher, come in, and select whatever they need.

Vinnies has seen a significant rise in the need for winter gear, coupled with a notable decrease in donations. Photo: DAVID COPE

“Food has been the number one assistance we’ve been providing for the last six to seven months.

“The number of homeless people has increased dramatically in the last few months as well, which is pretty scary given that we’re going into the coldest months.”

Vinnies’ network of more than 200 shops in NSW plays a crucial role in funding their community programs and services.

Proceeds from sales help support local initiatives, providing essential aid to those struggling to make ends meet this winter.

(L-R) Ballina Vinnies volunteers Estelle McSkimming, Mary Coleman and Carol Flanagan. Photo: DAVID COPE

In addition to winter clothing and donations, the organisation is also putting the call out for more volunteers.

“The Ballina store is an amazing team. Our manager, Mary Coleman, is over 90. She’s been with us for 47 years, which is very impressive—47 years. That’s a lifetime,” Ms McCormack said.

Ballina, Lennox Head, Byron Bay, Brunswick Heads, and Mullumbimby Vinnies stores are all looking for volunteers.

Full details on volunteering, shop locations, and donation options can be found at vinnies.org.au.