Three quarters of Australia’s hardest hit families will go without food this Christmas, according to new research.
The Salvation Army found that 99 per cent of those surveyed were worried about how they would afford Christmas this year, while 62 per cent said they would struggle to afford presents for their children.
The organisation is currently experiencing a “tsunami of need”, according to the Salvation Army’s Major Bruce Harmer.
“As you read and hear about these dreadful statistics, we are on the frontline seeing the people behind the numbers and hearing their stories,” he said.
“We are deeply concerned to hear about the agonising choices every-day Australians are making, such as deciding whether to pay an electricity bill or buy a Christmas present for their child.”
The Salvation Army’s internal survey of clients found that 77 per cent are struggling to afford enough food to eat this Christmas, while 73 per cent said their primary issue leading into Christmas was financial concerns.
More than 82 per cent of households with kids responded that they were worried about affording presents for their children this Christmas.
“Others are choosing to go without food and medication to ensure their children have food on the table,” Major Harmer said.
“The guilt and emotional toll of not being able to provide the basics for their family is the real but often hidden cost of financial hardship.”
Read Related Also: COVID Illinois: State reports 6,257 new cases, 4 deaths
Separate external research, which surveyed the general public also found three in 10 Australians will struggle to pay for utilities this Christmas.
Over half the Aussies who responded to the PureProfile’s survey said they were more stressed about their finances this year, compared to last year.
“These statistics clearly show the dire impact that the cost of living is having on Australians across the country,” Major Harmer said.
“They also show that over 2.5 million will be reaching out to a charity for support this Christmas.
“We don’t want anyone to feel like they are alone this Christmas. We encourage anyone who needs support to reach out; there is no shame in asking for help.
“If you are feeling lonely and isolated, struggling to make ends meet or in need of a hand this Christmas, the Salvos are here for you.”
The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal is aiming to raise $23 million this year to help one in seven families, who can’t afford basics like food or fuel and are also at risk of homelessness this Christmas.
