Vinnies launched their Winter Appeal campaign on Saturday to raise funds for people facing homelessness.
This year’s campaign focuses on women over 55 living in the streets.
According to Vinnies, there are currently 45 813 women facing homelessness in Australia, representing 59 per cent of people seeking for relief services.
“There’s a trend for women over 55 in this situation,” Vinnies spokesperson for WA Joanne Hill said.
“There is certainly a concern about this growing trend of women becoming homeless”.
Ms Hill said the main reason behind the increase in women applying for relief services is the setback in Australia’s economy, which caused many women to lose jobs they had had for several years.
Ms Hill was also concerned the economic situation would affect Vinnies fundraising.
“It’s tough economically at the moment and we see people tightening their belt.
“There is a concern over the last few months that it’s going to become harder (to raise funds). So we need to come up with new initiatives”. Ms Hill said.
Although the winter appeal emphasised the growing number of women living in the street, it would address general support for any individuals facing homelessness.
“All the funds raised will go towards helping our services to stay open and towards supplying emergency relief through our 24-hours call centre,” Ms Hill said.
“We only have government funding for one of our services, so we rely on community support to operate.”
Ms Hill said there is usually an increase in demand for services during the harsh winter months, especially among young people.
The Winter Appeal is Vinnies biggest campaign and raises funds to assist 1.3 million people, providing 2 million hot meals and 365 164 bed nights.
The campaign includes a wide range of fundraising events across Australia.
“Our most distinctive one is the CEO sleepout.
“During the event CEOs sleep one night in the cold to raise funds for Vinnies programs and raise awareness about homelessness.”
This year’s CEO sleepout will take place in June 23.
For further information about Vinnies Winter Appeal go to vinnies.org.au