Media Coverage
AAP; October 1, 2024
Charities could be forced to turn away desperate Australians as they face an unprecedented surge in demand for essential non-food items.
About eight in 10 charities across Australia say demand for essential non-food products has exploded, according to a report from charity distributor Good360.
The survey of more than 500 Australian charities and disadvantaged schools revealed 84 per cent expect the cost-of-living crisis to supercharge demand for these items in the coming year, with personal hygiene products, clothing and educational supplies topping the list.
Eastern Hills Community Pantry handed out $900,000 worth of items in 2023 with half being non-food related, manager Kerry Retallack said.
The Perth-based charity provides various non-food essentials including kitchen items, toiletries, clothing and toys.
“With toothbrushes, kids come in and go, ‘Mum, can we have a new toothbrush? They’ve got one here’, and you know they’ve been making do with an old one,” she said.
Struggling double-income earners are increasingly seeking help but the issue is affecting Australians across the board amid skyrocketing rents and mortgages.
Syndicated across over 100 titles nationwide including:
