Demand for St Vincent de Paul service up this year

An unprecedented number of requests has been made to the Society of St Vincent de Paul in Mullingar area this Christmas as families face crippling fuel and food bills. Last year, the Society helped some 300 families and already they have received 400 requests this year and expect to receive at least 100 further requests between now and Christmas.

Michael Donohoe, president of the Mullingar branch of the Society, told the Westmeath Examiner that many families are struggling to survive. Many are being forced to choose between buying food or fuel, or paying electricity bills.

The Society’s income has been drastically cut because of the pandemic. “Our Vincent’s shops have been closed for nearly two years and our monthly Church door collections have been suspended,” said Michael.

“The annual door-to-door collection at Christmas has also been suspended. This collection was part of the Christmas tradition in this area, made possible by the generosity of a large number of people in the community who volunteered of their time to assist with the collection,” he said.

The Society has posted out 10,000 appeal letters through An Post in the Mullingar area and the response so far is encouraging. Appeal letters with envelopes will be distributed to rural towns and villages through the Westmeath Examiner and other outlets.

Mr Donohoe commented that the pandemic has brought an increased sense of community and fellowship as seen by the encouraging response to their appeal. He asks people to give generously “so that we can help those less fortunate in our community”.

The Society is already issuing food and fuel vouchers to those in need – however, the work of the Society is not confined to Christmas. They help those who have fallen behind in their rent or electricity payments. Some are living in apartments where their only source of heat is electricity. Others are behind on their rent and many are having to choose between buying fuel or food or paying the rent.

The Society also helps with unexpected bills, funeral expenses and other unforeseen demands.

The Society sees education as a way out of poverty. It provides help with educational expenses, especially for students starting secondary school, where costs run between €500 and €700 per child, and it assists with third level expenses.

“The Society works closely with the Mullingar Lions Club, who support us and are a great help on the ground and financially,” Mr Donohoe said. The two groups will be working together again this year to ensure that as many families as possible will be helped this Christmas and they need public support to achieve this.

If you have free time and would like to make a difference, the Society of St Vincent de Paul are always looking for volunteers. They have in the region of 80 volunteers in the greater Mullingar area, but as the demand grows so does the need for more help.

Anyone who needs help should not hesitate to call Freefone 1800 677 777. Their request will be logged and forwarded to the local branch (conference) for consideration. All requests will be dealt with in the strictest confidence and if help is needed it will be given.

The Society wishes all a happy and peaceful Christmas and new year.