DONATIONS of blankets, bedding, warm clothing, food and pantry items have helped increase the impact of ac.care on vulnerable country South Australians during winter.
Generous contributions from community groups, businesses, schools, and local people were crucial in meeting demand as people experiencing hardship received support from ac.care sites across the Limestone Coast, Murraylands and Riverland.
Among the significant contributions were donations of non-perishable food and pantry items made by customers of Drakes Murray Bridge as part of the Food for Friends campaign, which was presented by Power FM 98.7 and 5MU 96.3.
In the Limestone Coast, the annual Triple M 90.5 and SAFM 96.1FM Limestone Coast Blankets and Winter Warmer Appeal once again attracted strong community support with residents answering the call to help bring comfort to people in need during the wintry conditions. The appeal was also generously supported by Park Dry Cleaners, with the Mount Gambier business serving as a drop-off point for donations.
The 2025 Limestone Coast Support Homeless People Luncheon also raised $135,000 to address homelessness in the region, while the major fundraising event has generated other impactful business initiatives.
Riverland residents seeking support through Berri Community Centre benefited, including from the Riverland Irrigation Trust, the Loxton Shed Quilters, Berri Uniting Church craft group Refresh and Bloom, and newly formed charity Beating Heart by Bee and Lee.
ac.care homelessness and community services manager Trish Spark said the number of people seeking support continued to grow, praising the community for its contributions that helped meet demand.
“The colder, wetter and shorter days of winter can really add to the challenges of people experiencing hardship as they try to keep warm, stay dry, manage their utility costs and access transport,” Ms Spark said.
“Every donation makes an impact and can help bring immediate comfort to someone while they receive support from our dedicated team to address other challenges they may be experiencing.
“Homelessness is everybody’s business and we are fortunate to live in a community that is prepared to be a part of the solution.
“It is going to take a combined approach from governments, business, and the broader community to achieve meaningful change in ending homelessness and reducing the number of disadvantaged people in our regions.”
While the winter appeal has ended, donations of new or as-new clothing, non-perishable foods, household items, and other goods are gratefully accepted at ac.care sites.
If you or someone you know needs support, find your nearest site or call 1300 ACCARE (1300 222 273) to discuss how ac.care can help.
