Vinnies launches 2020 Christmas appeal to help struggling families

St Vincent de Paul Society national president Claire Victory said COVID-19 had seen many people seek help from the charity for the first time in what has been "a very tough year".

"Job losses, business closures and reduced working hours have placed many communities under increased financial strain," she said

"The Federal Government has reduced the coronavirus supplement and it will drop again early next year, plunging many more people into poverty, and other supports such as the moratorium on evictions are also being lifted in some states."

Ms Victory said even without border closures and travel restrictions, many people in the community found Christmas to be a particularly lonely time of year due to social isolation.

"Each year the Australian community provides generously to help Vinnies help people who have fallen on hard times to enjoy something of the Christmas season," she said.

"The pandemic has made it harder for Vinnies to meet the needs of the people we help due to social distancing restrictions and the need for the contactless delivery of food support.

"Belts have tightened around the nation, and our committed volunteers have been prevented from helping because of COVID risks. During lockdown, many Vinnies shops across Australia had to close or reduce their operations, reducing our ability to generate funds to distribute to people in need.

"This year's campaign has been launched at the end of a year many would rather forget. But with your help, we will be able to make this festive season that little bit brighter for people in our community who are doing it particularly tough.?

Donate to the 2020 Vinnies Christmas Appeal via vinnies.org.au/christmasappeal or by calling 13 18 12.