SVP Edenderry announces annual Christmas appeal

St Vincent de Paul Edenderry, which also serves Clonbulloge and Rhode, will be holding its annual church gate and Christmas appeal on the weekend of December 7 and 8.

There are also blue donation envelopes available at the SVP shop on JKL St, Edenderry.

SVP Edenderry has expressed thanks for the generosity of the people in Edenderry, Rhode and Clonbullogue.

“In 2023, SVP were able to provide over €90,000 in assistance to clients in Edenderry and the surrounding area, and we are on course to do similar in 2024.

“Of that, over €25,000 was used specifically for education, as we strongly believe that education is the best tool to help people out of long-term poverty and give them options to build their future.

The charity has been active in the Edenderry area since 1927.

“Edenderry has changed a lot over that time, but our aim to serve those in need regardless of creed, ethnicity, social background, health, gender, or political opinion remains constant.

“For someone living in poverty, their options are limited, which can feel stifling. That lack of choice can range from seemingly small things, such as not being able to afford the larger box of washing powder, even though it may be cheaper in the long run. So, people in poverty are penalised every time they shop because of their limited income.

“It means not being able to choose to replace a ten-year-old washing machine that’s on its last legs during Black Friday sales. It means having to wait until it breaks down, when there are no sales.

“While those might seem like small hurdles, every time someone has to get over one of them, it’s draining. Over time, their accumulation can seem insurmountable.

“At SVP, we want to help people over those hurdles, so that the next time they can feel like they have the ability to face it themselves. We want to empower people to become self-sufficient.

“This year, we have sat in many kitchens with clients where options seemed limited. Due to increased rent or mortgage repayments, high energy bills or reduced income, families faced eviction or mounting arrears. In situations where that is compounded by illness, or language and information barriers, it can feel especially isolating. It’s in those instances where SVP try our hardest to offer some hope.

“Very often the cause of the problem is short-term and, if SVP can provide the right help early enough, we can prevent the problem from deteriorating.”

SVP Edenderry will also be holding an information evening in the new year for anyone who would be interested in becoming a volunteer. Additional information on this will be made available in January.