St Vincent de Paul (SVP) South-West has warned of a ‘deepening winter crisis’ across Cork and Kerry after it recorded over 3,000 calls for help during December alone, a significant increase on the 2,100 calls received during the same period last year.

The charity said this represents one of the busiest Christmas periods on record, with families continuing to struggle under relentless cost of living pressures.

They added has stressed that the true number of people seeking help is substantially higher as many families and individuals directly contact local SVP volunteers seeking urgent support with food, energy costs and basic living expenses.

SVP South West regional president Mary Frances Behan said that relentless cost of living pressure is taking a heavy toll on families across Cork and Kerry.

‘We are hearing from people who are exhausted, anxious and overwhelmed,’ she said.

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

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

With cold snaps forecasted the charity 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.

As the final dare for entries approaches, SVP South West is urgently appealing to the public to support its annual Car Draw 2035, a key fundraiser that generated essential income used directly to support families struggling to meet their basic needs.’

‘The annual SVP car draw is a crucial source of funding during the charity’s busiest and most pressurised period. The car draw is a lifeline for families and individuals across Cork and Kerry. The increase in calls we received in December gives a very clear picture of the pressures families are under,’ added Mary Frances Bean.

Last year, SVP South-West volunteers supported 27,314 families and individuals, providing more than €5m in direct support across Cork and Kerry.

The easiest way of supporting the 2025 Car Draw is online at www.svp.ie by following the car draw link.

Tickets can also be purchased across SVP social media platforms and the closing date is Friday January 9th with the draw taking place on Wednesday January 14th.

Tickets cost €10, three tickets for €25, or five tickets for €40.