Volunteers under pressure as they help over 200 local families

By Michelle Crean

Increasing energy costs and sharp hikes in rent has driven more and more people into the poverty trap this year than ever before according to a local charity - who are appealing for public support.

Lone parents - even those who are working - are making up the bulk of those seeking help as they struggle to pay for rising electricity and heating bills - before they can purchase toys or put food on the table this Christmas.

Breda Dwyer, Area President of the Killarney St Vincent de Paul Conference, says she is shocked with the increase this year.

Currently volunteers with the service are putting together food boxes, and are giving vouchers for toys and fuel, with over 200 local families and vulnerable people being looked after so far this Christmas.

"It's shocking and we're very concerned for them," Breda told the Killarney Advertiser.
"We find this year lone mothers or parents - even those who are working - are struggling because everything has increased. Rents are from €800 a month, even people living on their own pay up to €1,000. It's busier with COVID, people are finding it harder with the extra costs of coal, electricity and oil. Some people in older apartments with poor insulation are using electric heaters. They are pleading with us to come up to them so that they can buy toys. I'm in my 11th year [with SVdP Killarney] and I've never seen as much demand as this year."

Breda and her team of volunteers are busy buying and packing the food as well as vouchers to give to those most in need. However, they are appealing to the community to drop in what they can so that no one goes without.

"We'd be grateful for any help," Breda said.

Tonight (Friday) The Late Late Show will also highlight the remarkable work of the St Vincent de Paul Annual Appeal, as the charity prepares to help thousands of families across Ireland to have a brighter Christmas.

Anyone who needs assistance over the coming days or weeks can drop in to the St Vincent de Paul shop on Beech Road or call 064 66 22668.