Sandra's story

In the last year, Sandra has lost 15 kilos. Not by choice, but from the stress of trying to make ends meet and going without meals so her children can eat.
It all started when Sandra’s husband was suddenly made redundant. “He was out of work for a lot longer than we thought he would be,” says Sandra. “And when he did find a job eventually he was being paid so much less.”

Sandra considered going back to work, but with two children requiring special care, she knew that wasn’t an option. It didn’t take long for the bills to pile up.

“We’ve got a mortgage that we can’t afford every month, our bank is $600 overdrawn, the car rego was just due… and then there are the $1,600 kinder fees for my son. It’s just too much.”

“If it wasn’t for the Salvos I wouldn’t be able to put food on the table to feed my family.”

Sandra receives food hampers from her local Salvos that generally last three days, maybe four, depending on how far she can stretch it. “That’s hard with three boys in the house.”

She also meets regularly with the Salvos financial counsellor who has helped her to start sorting out payment plans and calling utility and other companies on her behalf.

“It’s been a rough year on us all…it definitely takes its toll. It kills me when I can’t provide for my kids. My little boy asked me yesterday why we didn’t have any cordial in the cupboard…I don’t know how to tell him that Mummy doesn’t have any money to go shopping.”

To you, our generous supporters, Sandra has this message: “Thank you to everyone who donates. I’m grateful and I appreciate it. You’re helping me provide for my family. I don’t know what else to say but thank you.”

Your support ensures the Salvos can put food on the table for families struggling to get by.