As wintry conditions truly set in, the Salvation Army is calling for donations of winter goods to support the nation’s most vulnerable people.
Salvos stores are encouraging drop-offs of warm clothing and goods after a downturn in winter stock, offering a 20 per cent discount to those who donate goods.
Salvation Army Shepparton branch captain Karyn Wishart helps co-ordinate Shepparton’s Winter Night Shelter.
While the program has moved from its previous iteration of providing accommodation to instead providing free warm meals to those experiencing homelessness, Ms Wishart said the shelter was always accepting donations.
“Donations of the dollar are the most beneficial so we can utilise it to be of the most assistance to help the individual,” she said.
“As for other donations, brand new things are always appreciated.
“Very warm sleeping bags, rugs and clothing, even tents to stand up in — practical items.”
Homelessness and housing stress is a significant issue in Greater Shepparton, with the region holding the highest rate of homelessness in all of regional Victoria at 5.6 people per 1000.
In Greater Shepparton City Council’s submission to the Victorian parliamentary inquiry into homelessness, the area was estimated to have an alarming shortfall of 1751 affordable housing dwellings.
The shelter’s change of pace was implemented to reach a wider section of the community and discover how to best support those who need it.
Ms Wishart said the new model had been well-received by the community and those using the services, with a special thanks to volunteers.
She said more people had been turning up to receive a free meal each night than the amount that had used the previous accommodation provided.
“As an organisation, sometimes there can be a need in mind that might not necessarily be what the community needs,” Ms Wishart said.
“We’ve had a really steady group, it’s nice to sit with people and eat, to check in with how they’re really going.
“This change has enabled us to really connect and have those relationships.”
The food truck is based at the gazebo at Shepparton’s Victoria Park Lake every night — including Saturday and Sunday — through winter, at 5.45pm.
The St George’s Rd Salvation Army op shop accepts donations Monday to Friday from 9am to 4.30pm. To donate directly to the shelter, visit Greater Shepparton Winter Shelter on Facebook for more details.