27/08/2026
Hopefield has recorded a more than 20 per cent increase in people accessing its food pantry this winter, as cost-of-living pressures continue to place Sutherland Shire individuals and families under financial strain.
The local community organisation says demand for its food pantry during winter 2026 is more than 20 per cent higher than during the same period last year, while it is currently supporting 10 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness and housing insecurity.
Those clients include people at risk of losing their homes because of financial stress, highlighting how housing insecurity in the Shire can extend beyond people sleeping rough.
The figures were provided to Shire News Desk after Hopefield recently received 75 winter essentials donated by Daisy Hill Menai Anglican Church and Donald Robinson Village in Kirrawee.
The donation includes 30 hand-knitted blankets, 20 beanies, 20 pairs of socks and five scarves, which Hopefield is distributing to people experiencing hardship across the local community.
Hopefield CEO Vicki Sherry said seemingly simple donations could provide an important first connection between someone experiencing hardship and the organisation's broader support services.
“A warm blanket or beanie may seem like a simple gift, but often it becomes an entry point to something much bigger,” Ms Sherry said.
“When people come to Hopefield for practical support, it creates an opportunity to connect them with food relief, shower and laundry facilities, case management, referrals, clinical services and community connections.”
Ms Sherry said early intervention was particularly important for people facing financial and housing pressures, with support provided before circumstances deteriorate into a crisis.
“The right support at the right time can help prevent a difficult situation from becoming a crisis,” she said.
“While housing is a critical foundation, lasting change happens when people also have access to the practical support, relationships and connections that help them rebuild stability and hope.”
The donated items were created through Daisy Hill Coffee, Conversation & Craft, a community group at Menai Anglican Church whose members regularly make blankets, knitwear and other items for people experiencing hardship.
Donald Robinson Village, an Anglicare retirement community in Kirrawee, has also supported Hopefield's work for a number of years through its residents and community groups.
Hopefield thanked both groups for their contribution as demand for assistance continues to grow across the Shire.
“This donation is a wonderful example of local people caring for local people,” Ms Sherry said.
“We are incredibly grateful to Daisy Hill Menai Anglican Church and Donald Robinson Village for their generosity, compassion and ongoing commitment to helping those who are doing it tough.”
Hopefield says members of the community can support its work through financial donations, regular giving, food and essential-item donations through HopeDrive, or purchases through its Hope + Love Store. - https://hopeandlove.com.au/
