Vinnie’s ask for post-Christmas help.

Vinnies is calling on North Queenslanders to de-clutter their cupboards and ‘re-gift, reuse and recycle’ unwanted Christmas gifts to help change the lives of people in need this year. 

With more Queenslanders than ever experiencing hardship caused by unemployment, financial  stress, the threat of eviction, and an increased risk of homelessness this year due to the economic  impacts of COVID-19, Vinnies has never needed more support to continue to deliver its life changing services.  

Vinnies Queensland General Manager of Operations, Drew Eide, said whether the unwanted items don’t fit, won’t be used, or simply aren’t your style, all donations to Vinnies will not only contribute to the wellbeing of another person in need, but will also save  unwanted gifts from ending up in landfill. 

“The simple act of donating second-hand or unwanted gifts and other unused items will have a significant impact on helping Vinnies fund its vital work in Queensland communities,” he said. 

“If you’re struggling to find room for all that stuff, your ‘unwanted item’ might be the perfect ‘treasure’ that someone else is searching for.

 “By donating, you can feel good about helping Vinnies turn your unwanted presents into the perfect gift for struggling Queenslanders. 

 “All proceeds from the sale of recycled gifts will go towards our many community programs including emergency assistance, housing and homelessness support, youth programs, disaster relief and more.” 

Day supervisor of Vinnies Mareeba Deborah Mitchell said they are always looking for good quality stain-free clothing. “We are always in need of good quality near new clothing,  linen, toys, plates, cutlery, household goods and anything that somebody may need to start a house,” she aid

“We always need children’s cots, prams, and furniture.”

“We also take unwanted material and yardage that we can either sell or turn into rags.”

Donations are accepted at all Vinnies retail stores during operating hours or through donation bins located across the state.  To ensure gifts that are destined for a second life don’t become waste, Queenslanders are encouraged to avoid leaving donations outside of Vinnies’ shop fronts. 

For shop opening hours go to qld.vinnies.org.au