SVP warns of crisis as calls for help soar over festive season

Tue, 06 Jan, 2026 - 07:00

Donal O’Keeffe

St Vincent de Paul (SVP) South-West has warned of a deepening winter crisis across Cork and Kerry after the charity recorded a 43% increase in calls for help over the Christmas period.

The charity received more than 3,000 calls for help in December, marking a significant increase on the 2,100 calls received during the same period last year.

This figure represented one of SVP South-West’s busiest Christmas periods on record, with families continuing to struggle under what the charity called “relentless cost-of-living pressures”.

SVP South-West said that many families paper over the cracks of debt in the run-up to Christmas, doing everything they can to ensure their children have gifts and a sense of normality.

However, the charity has warned that real hardship is now emerging in January, as households face mounting bills, depleted savings, and ongoing debt accumulated over the festive period.

With a cold snap forecast over the coming days, SVP South-West has warned that demand for fuel and heating assistance is expected to rise further, placing additional strain on already stretched services as families struggle to keep their homes warm.

SVP South-West regional president Mary Frances Behan said the charity is appealing to the public to support its annual car draw, a key fundraiser that generates essential income used directly to support struggling families to meet their basic needs.

“The annual SVP car draw is a crucial source of funding during the charity’s busiest and most pressurised periods.

“Every year the public generously support the draw, and we are so grateful for this support,” Ms Behan said.

“We are hearing from people who are exhausted, anxious and overwhelmed.

“Many have never needed help before, but they simply cannot keep up with rising costs and just need a bit of support to get through the winter months.”

Last year, SVP South-West volunteers supported 27,314 families and individuals, providing more than €5m in direct support across Cork and Kerry. The charity anticipates its 2025 spending will be significantly higher, driven by escalating call volumes and increased demand for food, fuel and energy supports.