“She still calls and comes in and she’s so grateful. I was glad I was on the desk that day, so I could take care of her.”

Emergency Relief isn’t just about food, clothing or vouchers — although they’re important. It’s practical support that helps people build the skills and find the solutions they need to cope with the hand they’ve been dealt. Someone who ‘gets’ them and what they’re going through, who can assist with a plan.

Without your help, these stories would not have had hopeful endings. Without donors like you, we simply couldn’t support the people who walk through our doors.

But the need is deepening. We all know about the cost-of-living crisis — and many of us are feeling the pinch. But none more so than the most vulnerable in our communities.

And increasingly, the people seeking help are those who never thought they would need it — people in relationships, in work, with mortgages. They’re doing everything they can, and still, they can’t keep up.

Since Deb started in her role five years ago, demand has quadrupled.

As soon as the Emergency Relief pantry is stocked, the food is gone.  Appointments fill almost immediately. Deb has to turn more than 15 people away every day — asking them to come back and try again.

She does what she can, making sure no one leaves completely emptyhanded. But it’s heartbreaking.