St. Vincent de Paul (SVP) South-West region is facing a surge in demand for assistance as the cost-of-living crisis continues to grip Ireland. At the launch of their annual Car Draw fundraiser, the charity painted a stark picture of the challenges faced by struggling families and individuals.

SVP reported a significant increase in calls for help, with 958 requests for assistance received in October alone. This number is expected to peak at 1,050 calls in December.  Mary Frances Behan, SVP South-West’s Regional President, attributed this rise to the exorbitant costs of food and fuel, coupled with stagnant wages.

“We have received an unprecedented number of calls for this time of year and from all walks of life,” said Ms. Behan.  She highlighted the plight of pensioners, social welfare recipients, carers, and low-income earners who are bearing the brunt of the crisis.

According to SVP, food and energy costs are the primary concerns for callers. The charity provides fuel assistance to vulnerable families during the winter months, but rising energy costs are straining their resources.

“Energy and food costs remain stubbornly high and a source of anxiety for callers, and impact our funds as we must provide extra vouchers to ensure those we support can heat their homes and put food on their tables,” explained Ms. Behan.

SVP had recommended a minimum €20 weekly increase in social welfare payments to offset the rising cost of living. However, the government’s recent budget only provided a €12 increase, leaving many struggling to make ends meet.

“The overriding theme we are seeing this year is that, in addition to struggling and vulnerable people, the cost-of-living crisis is really squeezing lower and even some middle-income workers as their expenses continue to rise whilst their earnings remain the same,” remarked Ms. Behan.

The charity highlighted the desperation of many callers who are grappling with basic living expenses.

Annual Car Draw

The Annual Car Draw is a critical fundraiser for SVP South-West, generating vital funds to support those in need across Kerry.

“The public has always been extremely generous to the Society here in Kerry,” said Ms. Behan. “We are incredibly grateful for every ticket purchased or donation received.”

However, Ms. Behan expressed concern about the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on donations.

“The funds raised from the Annual Car Draw are vital to enable us to help as many people as possible,” she stressed.  “It has been another exceptionally challenging year for SVP but particularly for the families and individuals we support. We depend on the generosity of our many donors and we’re asking them to support us once again, if possible, in the coming weeks.”

How to donate

The SVP South-West Annual Car Draw offers a chance to win a brand-new Ford Focus while supporting a worthy cause. Tickets cost €5 each or €20 for a bundle of five.  Tickets can be purchased online at www.svp.ie/cardraw24 or by returning a freepost envelope included in the mailing sent to Kerry households.  Donations are also welcome through both channels.

The draw will take place on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at the Cork City Ford Centre. The closing date for entries is January 10, 2025, at noon.

In addition to the Car Draw, SVP South-West offers a variety of programmes to assist those in need, including fuel deliveries and food hampers. With the holidays approaching, the charity anticipates an even greater demand for their services.

Community support

SVP South-West extends their gratitude to the people of Kerry for their continued support. 

“We continue to find new ways to contact and help the families and individuals we assist and have overcome many challenges to do so,” said Jason Boyle, South-West Regional Vice President and Area President for East Cork. “This would not be possible without the generous support of the public, and we really do appreciate it.”

Supporting Families in Need:

SVP South West’s 2024 in numbers

SVP South West responded to 9,361 requests for help, providing crucial support to those in need

A total of 27,314 families received vital aid and resources to help them through difficult times

SVP distributed 18,660 food hampers and meals to ensure no one goes hungry

Fuel support was extended to 5,442 individuals and families to keep their homes warm and safe