By Mark Bowling
THE St Vincent de Paul Society has launched an appeal for those hard hit by flooding in New South Wales.
After a week of record-breaking rain, the state’s mid north coast is one of regions most impacted with large numbers of families evacuated, stock lost, and businesses and property damaged and destroyed.
“Vinnies needs your help to provide everyday necessities to people who’ve been displaced by the floods,” Vinnies Manning region president Deacon Vince Ryan said.
“Vinnies has a network of members living in these communities across the state who are ready to provide people with practical assistance and emotional support.”
While the town of Taree on the Manning River has been hard hit with major evacuations, further north residents of Port Macquarie are also affected.
Port Macquarie’s St Agnes parish, part of the Diocese of Lismore, has rallied to provide emergency accomodation for 72 elderly, displaced residents at a retreat centre and has made further beds available in aged care residential homes for elderly patients of the local hospital.
A parish youth hub has become a makeshift shelter for locals needing a place to shower, wash clothes or settle for a cup of tea or coffee.
A moderate flood warning was also issued for Kempsey on the Macleay River and surrounding region.
Across the state, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW chief executive oficer Jack de Groot said many people had lost their homes and more evacuations were expected before the weather passes.
“Vinnies has been helping Australians in crisis for nearly 140 years, and to supply evacuees with food, clothing, household goods, and longer term recovery, we need your help,” Mr de Groot said.
“If you are able, please donate to the Vinnies NSW Flood Appeal.
“All donations will go towards assisting people and communities directly impacted by the floods.”
Donations can be made by calling 13 18 12, at www.vinnies.org.au/NSWFloodAppeal or at any Vinnies Shop.
