As Christmas approaches, the spirit of giving is alive and well at HDStreetwise, a non-profit charity based in Kenwick that provides support to those in need, but they need your help this holiday season.
On Saturday, December 21, from 10 am to 12:30 pm at 84 Kenwick Road (the former Kenwick Library), HDStreetwise is calling for volunteers to help pack hampers for those struggling this Christmas.
Donations of non-perishable food items, such as pasta, cereal, tinned fruit, long-life milk, biscuits, custard, jelly, snack bars, and canned food, are also needed to fill the hampers.
These items can be dropped off at their store, located at Shop 12, 1808 Albany Hwy, Kenwick, across from Bunnings Maddington.
Founder of HDStreetwise, Shelley Hubon, is encouraging local residents to get involved this festive season, highlighting the impact their support will have on families in need.
“Christmas is about giving, so I encourage everyone to come down and help, as there’s nothing more rewarding than making a positive difference in someone’s life,” Hubon said.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to know you’re making a real difference. We’re not just handing out hampers to strangers; we know they’re going to individuals and families in need, which makes it all the more meaningful for everyone involved.”
According to a recent report released by the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) and the University of New South Wales, 22 per cent of Australians who are renting are living below the poverty line.
Among single-parent households, 31 per cent are living below the poverty line, and for those renting social housing, that figure rises to more than 50 per cent.
Having organised emergency relief hampers for the past 10 years, Shelley Hubon said she’s noticed how the rising cost of living is making it increasingly difficult for many families to make ends meet.
“This time of the year is hard for a lot of people because there’s a lot of expectations on what Christmas should be like, but a lot of people are struggling to put food on the table let alone provide an extra special day,” she said.
“Hopefully, for people who still have a roof over their heads, these hampers mean they can afford to put money towards paying bills, which ultimately makes a big difference in their lives.”
