Vinnies and IGA hosted a BBQ in Sydney last week to celebrate the launch of the 2018 Vinnies Christmas Appeal.
The launch took place at Matthew Talbot hostel in Woolloomooloo with Vinnies NSW CEO Jack De Groot and Channel 9 News Weather Presenter Belinda Russell. Also attending were IGA NSW state board members and retailers Warren Mason (IGA Woonona) and David Hoade (IGA Thirroul and IGA Kiama Downs).
The launch hosted people currently affected by homelessness and using Vinnies services. Metcash volunteers gave out a selection of BBQ food supplied by IGA. They also got a tour of the Matthew Talbot Hostel and Ozanam Learning Centre.
Meanwhile, Sydney Street Choir (right) supplied the soundtrack for the BBQ diners. The choir began in 2001 to help men and women dealing with homelessness, mental illness, addiction and social disadvantage.
Buy a bauble
As part of the appeal, IGA will once again sell $2 Vinnies Christmas Baubles at IGA stores until December 25. All funds they raise will go directly to the Vinnies Christmas Appeal to support Vinnies’ work.
Jack de Groot thanked IGA retailers for “embracing the true spirit of Christmas”. He went on: “Christmas can be a challenging time for many in our community, who will struggle with basics like food and clothing, finding a safe place to sleep and isolation.
“We’re very grateful to IGA’s ongoing support, as it allows us to help even more people struggling to make ends meet.”
Belinda Russell said: “I’m incredibly proud to be a part of the St Vincent de Paul Society’s Christmas Appeal.
“Vinnies says, ‘Christmas without joy is not Christmas at all’, and it’s so true. Vinnies and IGA are all about helping those who need it the most. At Christmas time, that’s when we need to do our little bit to spread that Christmas cheer.”
Warren Mason added: “As IGA retailers, we believe in supporting all members of the local community … Supporting Vinnies and their work and making sure that their services are well funded, especially at this time of year, is essential.”
Since 2012, independent retailers from IGA across Australia have donated more than $1.5 million to support Vinnies and those most in need during the festive season.