ISOLATION continues to be at its most prominent throughout the festive season with single, financially struggling and new Australians hit the hardest.
A Roy Morgan survey commissioned by the Salvation Army found 65.3 per cent of respondents knew people who would be lonely this Christmas while 45 per cent believed Christmas was a financial nightmare.
Bentley Salvation Army Major Sharon Watson said the service gave out food and household items all year-round but found Christmas to be the busiest and most emotionally taxing time for many families.
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READ NOW“Every Christmas we help about 60 to 80 families in the area; giving them vouchers, food, toys and even practical help to decorate the table,” Major Watson said.
Further, the Dumond Street barracks fed up to 40 people for Christmas lunch last year; a three course traditional meal with all the trimmings.
“Research shows Christmas is a lonely time of year and a high percentage of people consider themselves lonely,” Major Watson said.
“We try to build a community throughout the year to enable people to connect, and encourage making connections.”
Those able to donate toys can contact Major Watson on 0487 001 086, while those able to donate non-perishable food, or small gifts for Christmas lunch can contact Captain Diane Gibbons 9458 1855 or 0438 978 682.
Further, members of the community who are alone this Christmas can register for lunch on 9458 1855 or 0438 978 682.
Bentley Salvation Army is located at 48 Dumond Street, Bentley.