Over 5,000 families sought back-to-school assistance from SVP last month
The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) received a record number of calls in August, which included calls from over 5,000 families seeking back-to-school help.
That is about 40% of the requests for practical assistance received by the Society last month from households in need.
This figure may even be understated according to the Society as SVP members often see families cut back on essentials like food and heating due to school costs.
Speaking about the latest figures, SVP spokesperson, Tricia Keilthy said: “Particularly at this time of the year, families approach SVP for help with utility bills or food shopping because of the pressure of buying uniforms, books and other materials and paying for the so-called ‘voluntary’ contribution.
“Back-to-school this week has been a really exciting time for lots of children and their parents. But for many low income and struggling households, the preparation for the new school year has been a huge source of stress and anxiety, with the prospect of further requests throughout the year for contributions for education, exam and extra- curricular expenses.”
SVP has called on the Minister for Education to start to make free education a reality with proper funding for schools and additional supports for parents.
SVP went on to say that while the increase in the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance this year was welcome, it remains significantly below 2011 levels.
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