Research from The Salvation Army shows that 82 per cent of households with children are worried about affording presents for their children this Christmas and more than four in five single parent households will struggle to afford enough food to eat.
The Salvation Army’s Major Bruce Harmer explains, “We found that the parents who come to us for support are struggling to afford Christmas – and not the Christmas luxuries like a shiny new bike or gadget to put under the tree – but the basics like food and even a single present for their child.
“In contrast, we also surveyed the general Australian public and found that they are also concerned about how they will afford presents and food. Staggeringly, 3.9 million Australians (15%) are concerned about their children missing out on presents and 1.7 million (7 percent) are worried their children will go without food.”
Further, the Pureprofile external research found that for 15.7 million Aussies (61 percent), Christmas will be anything but joyous due to the impact of the rising cost of living.
Sadly, one in five Salvos clients will spend Christmas alone this year, with those aged 55-plus almost twice as likely to be alone this Christmas. At the same time, 8.6 million Australians (34%) will have their Christmas significantly impacted by loneliness, anxiety, depression or stress.
“It’s tough for so many Aussies right now. It’s not surprising that with cost-of-living pressures mounting, we are seeing large numbers of people impacted by stress and mental health challenges,” Major Harmer says. “But we want to remind people that the Salvos are here to give a hand and that there is hope.
“We encourage people to reach out to a loved one, a friend or neighbour and check in on them this Christmas. If you are feeling lonely or need a hand, please reach out to the Salvos. We can provide emergency support, food and presents, and you can also join us for a Christmas meal.”
During the festive season, the Salvos provide over 136,000 meals across the country, distribute over 64,000 hampers and vouchers, and over 300,000 gifts and toys. They also provide more than 250,000 beds for those needing a place to stay during the Christmas period.***
“We know times are tough. But we can make a difference this Christmas,” says Major Harmer. “To help the Salvos put food on the table and presents under the tree for a family or individual in need, please donate to the Salvos Christmas Appeal. You truly can give hope where it’s needed most this festive season.”
Details: salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58).
