The Real Estate Institute of Western Australia (REIWA) is again teaming up with The Salvation Army to bring hope and festive cheer to struggling Australians this Christmas.
Part of REIWA’s long-standing Community REInvest program, the annual Christmas Appeal collects donations to support families and individuals in need during the holiday season.
REIWA member agencies across the state are accepting public donations of non-perishable food items and new, unwrapped gifts, which will be donated to the Salvos to distribute to those in need.
REIWA CEO Cath Hart says the initiative was a great way for West Australians to showcase their Christmas spirit and help those less fortunate.
“While Christmas is a time of joy for many, the festive season can be especially challenging for those in our community experiencing hardship or struggling with cost-of-living pressures,” she said.
“Over the past decade, REIWA members have been proud to support vulnerable members of the community throughout the year with our Community REInvest program.”
Cost of living killing Christmas
The Salvation Army has experienced a surge in demand for its services across 2024, with Western Australians struggling with arguably the nation’s worst rental crisis.
Data reveals significant disparities in rental conditions across WA, with the highest average rental increases of any state and low vacancy rates showing the harsh reality of WA’s highly strained market.
Vacancy rates inside the Greater Perth region still sit below two per cent, with many residents needing help finding a place to call home.
Meanwhile, rents and house prices have seen some of the highest increases nationwide, fueling the ongoing cost of living crisis.
“The Christmas Appeal aims to provide support for WA families experiencing food and financial insecurity,” Salvation Army spokesperson Warren Palmer said.
“We want to ensure that the spirit of Christmas can still visit those families and individuals, and our goal is to meet the needs of everyone who turns to us for help.”
“Our hope of achieving this rests with the support of those who can give, and REIWA’s Community REInvest partners are crucial in helping us make homes a ‘hub of hope’ this Christmas.”
For a complete list of suggested gift items, non-perishable food donations, and collection points, visit the REIWA Community REInvest page on reiwa.com.
Alternatively, monetary donations can be made online through The Salvation Army’s website.
