Sense of dread about winter power bills for many people

AS winter nears Anne Armansin will be preparing herself for the increased demand for her help.

Anne is an energy expert for St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland who helps people in need keep their electricity on and their power costs down.

Autumn is one of the busiest times on her calendar because for many disadvantaged Queenslanders, the impending winter months bring worry and a sense of dread about their power bills.

They have to choose whether to use their heaters to help survive the cold and go without basic items like food, or shiver through the winter months.

But Anne is there to help quell their fears.

Anne has helped countless families and individuals who have fallen into debt with power providers by developing solutions. Some of these include assisting with concession and payment assistance options, advocacy to avoid disconnection, extra charges and debt recovery action, explanation of bills and pricing and identification of appliances that use excessive energy, are faulty or in need of repair.

Our Autumn Appeal is an important fundraising effort which allows us, through our network of dedicated staff and volunteers, to help people in need get ready for the winter months.

For us to continue to make a difference in the lives of people that are marginalised through the work of people like Anne, we need your support.

The St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland Autumn Appeal runs until May and tax deductable donations can be made at vinnies.org.au/ donate (select QLD) or call 13 18 12.

JOHN FORREST, STATE PRESIDENT, ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND