Charities under growing pressure as demand rises

CHARITIES have declared the past year one of their toughest ever, as they faced record demand for services while public donations came under severe strain.

And while they have declared public support for their efforts “magnificent”, they warn the year ahead will be even more challenging as Ireland becomes a nation of the needy.

The Society of St Vincent de Paul, which donated more than €75 million to needy families this year, says numbers requiring special help for Christmas are up at least 25%.