Helpers need help

By Melissa Grant
ST VINCENT de Paul’s Pakenham branch is in desperate need of volunteers as demand for the service soars.
Chris Russo, president of the St Vincent de Paul’s Pakenham conference, said the charity was struggling because it does not have enough volunteers.
The charity, based at the St Patrick’s Parish Centre, helps between 25 and 30 families a week and is assisting about 11 new families each month.
“We’ve got a few auxiliary members that help us on call but as in registered members there are only six of us,” Mrs Russo said.
“It’s always been hard but now because we have so many calls we need more people.”
Volunteers deliver parcels of food, clothing and household items every weekday between 4pm and 6pm to the needy.
Mrs Russo said her work at the St Vincent de Paul’s Pakenham conference was very rewarding and she encouraged others to get involved.
“It’s been very hard because we’re short staffed but it is very rewarding especially because we can help families in different areas,” she said. Mrs Russo said Berwick Young Vinnies, which has members from the Pakenham area, also needed more volunteers.
Those interesting in volunteering for St Vinnies are invited to attend an information session next Tuesday (24 June) at 7.30pm in the Welcome Room at the St Patrick’s Parish Centre, Pakenham.
Prospective volunteers or residents wishing to donate goods can drop into or call the St Vinnies shop in Main Street on 5941 7982.
Those in need of assistance are asked to call 5995 0211.