WINTER APPEAL

Colder months are starting to take a toll and the Salvation Army is responding by launching its first winter appeal. The charity’s social service staff across the country are noticing families having to pay-as-you-go with electricity payment schemes or going without lighting or hot water for several days to save money. Heating the home is being considered no longer a priority by many parents. Some families can no longer afford public transport to collect food parcels or visit the doctor over the winter, the Salvation Army says. Head of social services Major Pam Waugh says the current depth of poverty is being driven by rising housing costs. ’’In winter, people’s needs are worsened by the additional costs of seasonal illnesses, cold homes, inadequate bedding and clothing and compounded by overcrowded and substandard living conditions,’’ she says. ’’Parents are trying hard, but many cannot see light at the end of the tunnel, only despair.’’ The Salvation Army winter appeal will help raise funds to meet seasonal demand for the basics of food, warmth and shelter. ’’We’re hoping Kiwis will realise that winter is harder for those already in need - and do their part to help,’’ Waugh says. Go to salvationarmy.org.nz/ WinterAppeal or phone 0800 53 00 00 to make a donation to the appeal.