Winter Appeal 2023 shines spotlight on older women experiencing homelessness

The theme of this year’s Winter Appeal is ‘What if your mum, grandma, aunt or sister became homeless?’, shines a spotlight on women over 55 as one of the fastest-growing groups of people at risk of and experiencing homelessness across Australia.

Findings from multiple studies show that older women are at an increased likelihood of homelessness due to rates of domestic and family violence, economic inequality, such as lower superannuation balances on average and inadequate income support payments, entrench poverty and disadvantage.

The current cost-of-living crisis is an additional driver with everything from housing, food, utilities and day-to-day essentials placing older women at heightened risk of homelessness. In the last financial year, the Society in WA supported over 1700 women aged over 55 with emergency assistance.

With rates of homelessness on the rise nationwide, it is imperative that support is offered to meet the needs of those at risk in our community.

Vinnies State President David Kennedy is urging the community to get behind the Vinnies Winter Appeal to support older West Australian women. “We know that women over 55 are particularly susceptible to experiencing homelessness, so we need to support them during these challenging times. “With the support of the community, we can help those experiencing homelessness, and prevent others from reaching a crisis point,” he said.

Donate to the Vinnies Winter Appeal or call 13 18 12.

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