Being employed no longer means making ends meet

Brian Stacey began volunteering at Vinnies in 2013, proudly doing his part in shaping a more just and compassionate society. He still calls it one of the best decisions of his life.

Eleven years later, now president of Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn, Brian spends much of his time focused on the ever-increasing number of struggling locals desperately reaching out for assistance. Recently, many Canberrans have been forced to do so despite having a job.

“We’re fielding 70-plus calls a day to the Vinnies Emergency Relief Helpline,” he says.

“Rent is the most common area we get asked for help with, followed by food, bills and essentials. The number of rental properties that a person earning minimum wage can afford is now below one per cent.

“When you’re just holding on, unplanned but unavoidable expenses like medical fees, vet bills or car failure can easily tip you over the edge.”

Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn also serves the Far South Coast and a few surrounding NSW communities, where the situation is even more dire, largely due to a lack of resources and outreach services similar to Night Patrol vans in the nation’s capital.

And it’s not just those on government support – it’s low-income people everywhere, even those who are working full time.

“People can’t suffer in silence any longer,” Brian says.

“I’ve seen families unable to send kids on school excursions due to rent increases and individuals skipping meals so their pets can eat.

“There are also certain costs associated with working. Transport, parking, laundry, technology … if you have no secure place to live, it’s really difficult to engage in and contribute to society at all.”

Brian would like to see a community that takes a housing-first approach to welfare for vulnerable people. He believes this is the best solution to support vulnerable locals for the long term.

“I’ve seen first-hand the difference that public housing can make,” he says.

“We still think of housing as a financial asset or commodity, when in reality, it’s a basic necessity and essential to lead a dignified human life. Securing accommodation for all is key to recognising and respecting personhood.

“Getting a job is no longer the first step to beating the cycle of poverty. This needs to change.”

The theme of this year’s Vinnies Winter Appeal is ‘Working Homeless’. It highlights the increasing number of people who are experiencing housing hardship and disadvantage despite being employed.

The local Society hopes to raise $450,000 to go towards food, essentials, rental payments and accommodation assistance for those who are experiencing poverty, currently homeless, or at risk of homelessness.

“We are behind where we’d usually be this far into winter,” Brian says.

“It’s telling of how much everyone is feeling the pressure, but I think it’s important to note that any donation of $2 or more is tax deductible. Every dollar counts, even if you can only spare a little.”

Your contribution to Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn’s 2024 Winter Appeal donation can help provide for vulnerable locals this winter.

If you or your family are experiencing hardship and require assistance, Vinnies is here to help. Get in touch with the national helpline on 13 18 12.