Anna Matina says traditional, middle-income families are increasingly in the queues of people needing help from the Epping-based Kildonan Uniting Care welfare service just to put a meal on the table.
“The demographic of people seeking assistance is changing,” Ms Matina said. “People typically viewed as middle-income families are unable to make ends meet.”
She said electricity and gas companies were telling the agency they also are dealing with growing numbers of two-income families applying for the state government’s hardship utility grants. The grants provide financial help to people struggling to pay utility bills so that their supplies aren’t cut off.
“Many of these people have never asked for help before,” Ms Matina said. Many of the families seeking help lived in Lalor and Thomastown.
Whittlesea council and the welfare service will hold a ‘Bring Your Bills Day’ at Lalor library on September 17, 10.30am-4.30pm, to help people struggling to keep their heads above water.
Other support services will also be there, offering advice on how to use water, gas and electricity more efficiently. Interpreters will be available on request, and Bundoora Rotary Club will put on a free barbecue.
Details: 1800 543 366 or 9217 2042
