The St Vincent de Paul Society WA would like to thank everyone who has been working hard to provide support to people who have been affected by the bushfires in the South West.
CEO Mark Fitzpatrick said the community has been overwhelmingly generous in its response to assist the people affected, which is testament to the incredible Aussie spirit during times of hardship.
“We are grateful that people have recognised us as an important avenue for the distribution of welfare support; however, we do not have the capacity or resources to accept any further in-kind donations,” Mr Fitzpatrick said.
“The Vinnies shops, especially at Waroona and Pinjarra, have been inundated with goods and we have had to call on Vinnies volunteers in Perth to go to the shops and help sort items as the shops are beyond capacity.
“We have had people from all over the State drive down to our shops to drop off goods and the want to help is incredible; however, we would ask that people hold on to their donations for the time being.
“The best way people can help is through financial donations,” Mr Fitzpatrick said.
If people wish to donate specifically to the bushfire victims, they can do so by going online where there is an option to donate to Bushfire Relief – www.vinnies.org.au.
“People’s need will be ongoing for some time and Vinnies will continue to provide assistance and support as long as there is a need,” Mr Fitzpatrick said.
The Department of Child Protection and Family Support is the lead agency coordinating the emergency response and Vinnies will continue to work with it and other agencies to assist anyone affected.
“Once again, we thank everyone for their generous response and willingness to help,” he said.