SVP Ballina makes annual Christmas Appeal as requests for help soar

St Vincent de Paul (SVP) in Ballina has seen an increase in requests for assistance with rent arrears, counselling, fuel, car repairs, household bills and education costs.

In making its annual Christmas Appeal, the charity said the hikes in rental costs continue to put enormous pressure on families in Mayo with rent increases in the county at 2% above the national average this year, despite a fall in mortgage interest rates this year. Ballina has not been included as a Rent Pressure Zone and no increases have been made in HAP thresholds so families in receipt of HAP are feeling the pressure of rising rent costs.

The removal of the eviction ban has also increased the pressure on families and overall rent costs are forcing some families to forego buying basic essentials. In addition, the charity has seen a rise in requests for help with arrears in electricity bills.

SVP said year-on-year requests for assistance with all types of therapy and assessments have increased and the availability of free counselling is very limited, making it difficult for families to access these services. It is providing assistance for children, adolescents and adults on a case-by-case basis.

As external factors locally and nationally have affected many from accessing medical and dental services through medical cards, the cost of a visit to the GP or to the hospital could mean the cost of diesel or food for the week.

The SVP’s Food Bank programme is getting busier and the amounts of food received through government and charity programmes have decreased due to the level of demand. The local SVP has purchased large amounts of food locally and these costs have also increased year-on-year.

SVP Ballina regularly assists 50 to 60 families per week in the winter months and demand is increasing with many families depending on SVP for most of their weekly food. This assistance helps them to use their money to meet other household needs.

SVP in Ballina is also using a large portion of its funds to assist students at third level, many of whom are forgoing good grades to get more working hours to help pay for rising living expenses, travel expenses and accommodation costs.

“SVP are very aware many of our donors may now be struggling with the rising cost-of-living issues. We deeply appreciate any donations we receive,” they said.

Donations for the St Vincent de Paul Ballina’s annual Christmas Appeal can be made by contacting the SVP offices on Teeling Street, Ballina on 096-72905.