The Problem

Women over 55 are experiencing homelessness at alarming rates.

Right now, in Australia, we’re experiencing a range of crises: the escalating cost of living, a shortage in affordable housing, gender inequality which negatively impacts women’s superannuation savings, and a rise in elder abuse, a form of family violence. And, sadly, older women like Joan are being hit hardest.

With living costs increasing significantly over the last few years, women like Joan are struggling to make ends meet. For many older women who are relying on their pension as their only income, they’re at a severe disadvantage when competing against double income earners in the rental market.

If they dedicated their lives to raising children, women often have much less in superannuation or savings than men. So if anything goes wrong, they’ll have no financial safety net.

Elder abuse is also becoming more common. Many older people, like Joan, become homeless after their relationship with their adult child goes downhill. Sadly, this is likely to happen easily, when an adult child is the main carer for their elderly parent.

Donate now and you’ll help make sure older women in crisis have a safe place to sleep, food, clothing and a chance to rebuild their lives.

Your generosity will help change lives. Here’s how:

Joan was a grieving widow when she was abandoned on the streets by her own children. Her money and life's savings stolen.

All she had was a small bag of belongings and the clothes on her back.

Because of the generosity of people like you, Joan was able to turn to Vinnies when she was desperate for help.

Donate now to help the growing number of older women like Joan experiencing elder abuse and homelessness. Your support will help provide immediate and long-term support they need to rebuild their lives.

Your gift this winter will make sure older women experiencing homelessness like Joan have a safe place to sleep, nutritious food, warm clothing and the support they need to rebuild their lives.