Winter Appeal
Give hope sweet hope

Change lives this Winter.

This winter, young families will be forced to sleep in their cars due to housing insecurity. Kids are going to bed hungry and seniors will be unable to afford heating and medication.

These are the harsh realities of a cost of living and housing crisis.

But together, we can make a difference.

Can you help us give hope sweet hope to South Australians doing it tough?

Donate today
Play Video
UnitingSA Winter Appeal 2025 case study

Living in the car was just horrifying, always moving around and then living in a one-room emergency motel room with no cooking facilities … it’s hard to describe. You can’t function normally, don’t eat properly, always on edge.

Jess

Help families like Jess weather the storm.

Five years ago, Jess’ life was healthy, stable and ‘normal’. But a catastrophic turn of events within the family plunged the now 44-year-old’s life into complete chaos.

In an attempt to ease her emotional pain, Jess made poor choices, her marriage of more than 20 years broke down and Jess was suddenly without a home with three children, aged between six and 16 at the time.

Jess and her children spent months couch surfing, living out of a car and in emergency motel accommodation.

When a friend suggested she connect with UnitingSA, there was a glimmer of hope…

Read Jess' full story

Help families like Jess weather the storm.

Five years ago, Jess’ life was healthy, stable and ‘normal’. But a catastrophic turn of events within the family plunged the now 44-year-old’s life into complete chaos.

In an attempt to ease her emotional pain, Jess made poor choices, her marriage of more than 20 years broke down and Jess was suddenly without a home with three children, aged between six and 16 at the time.

Jess and her children spent months couch surfing, living out of a car and in emergency motel accommodation.

When a friend suggested she connect with UnitingSA, there was a glimmer of hope…

Read Jess' full story

Living in the car was just horrifying, always moving around and then living in a one-room emergency motel room with no cooking facilities … it’s hard to describe. You can’t function normally, don’t eat properly, always on edge.

Jess

Donate online

All donations $2 and above are tax deductible.

You can also call (08) 8440 2200 to make a donation, or email fundraisingandpartnerships@unitingsa.com.au for further options. 

$20

will buy three hearty meals for a rough sleeper

Donate $20 Now

$50

provides a week of petrol for the school run

Donate $50 Now

$80

covers a vital a medical appointment

Donate $80 Now

$100

will provide a rough sleeper with basic necessities

Donate $100 Now

$200

pays for an average SA family’s weekly groceries

Donate $200 Now

Donate online

All donations $2 and above are tax deductible.

You can also call (08) 8440 2200 to make a donation, or email fundraisingandpartnerships@unitingsa.com.au for further options. 

Packing 20 community meals

$20

will buy three hearty meals for a rough sleeper

Donate $20 Now
Provides a week of petrol for the school run

$50

provides a week of petrol for the school run

Donate $50 Now
Medical appointment

$80

covers a vital a medical appointment

Donate $80 Now
Rough sleeper with basic necessities

$100

will provide a rough sleeper with basic necessities

Donate $100 Now
Weekly Groceries

$200

pays for an average SA family’s weekly groceries

Donate $200 Now

Donate online

All donations $2 and above are tax deductible.

You can also call (08) 8440 2200 to make a donation, or email fundraisingandpartnerships@unitingsa.com.au for further options. 

$20

will buy three hearty meals for a rough sleeper

Donate $20 Now

$50

provides a week of petrol for the school run

Donate $50 Now

$80

covers a vital a medical appointment

Donate $80 Now

$100

will provide a rough sleeper with basic necessities

Donate $100 Now

$200

pays for an average SA family’s weekly groceries

Donate $200 Now

Donate to our Winter Appeal today

All donations $2 and above are tax deductible.

You can also call (08) 8440 2200 to make a donation, or email fundraisingandpartnerships@unitingsa.com.au for further options. 

Donate to our Winter Appeal today

Give back this Winter.

Is your organisation looking to support people experiencing poverty and homelessness?

Unite your workplace, school or business to help South Australians with everyday needs, such as food, warmth and shelter.

You can be assured 100 per cent of your donation goes directly to those who need support.

Call (08) 8440 2200 or email fundraisingandpartnerships@unitingsa.com.au for more information.

Give back this Winter.

Is your organisation looking to support people experiencing poverty and homelessness?

Unite your workplace, school or business to help South Australians with everyday needs, such as food, warmth and shelter by becoming a Winter Appeal Supporter.

You can be assured 100 per cent of your donation goes directly to those who need support.

Sign up as a Supporter

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Stories of impact

Did you know more than 12,000 people call on our Emergency Relief Services each year?

Here’s how your donation helps change people’s lives.

Mother laying down with her baby in a bedroom

From homelessness to security, one step at a time

UnitingSA home starter kits contributed by CBB

Helping South Australians start over with dignity

UnitingSA Port Youth Crisis Accommodation former resident, Ali

Homeless at just 13, life’s now looking positive for Ali

Share details of our appeal

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FAQs

  • What is UnitingSA’s Winter Appeal?

    UnitingSA’s Winter Appeal is a fundraising campaign to support South Australians doing it tough during the colder months. Your donations help provide essential items like food, warm clothing and emergency relief to people experiencing hardship.

  • How does my donation help people in need?

    Your donation goes directly toward providing practical support—such as warm bedding, hot meals and crisis assistance—to people facing poverty, homelessness or unexpected hardship during winter.

  • Can I donate online?

    Yes, the fastest and easiest way to help is by donating online. Every dollar makes a difference, and donations over $2 are tax deductible. Donate now.

  • Can I make a monthly or recurring donation?

    Absolutely. Regular giving is one of the most powerful ways to support ongoing services. Simply select the “monthly donation†option when you give online.

  • Can I donate physical items like blankets or food?

    While financial donations allow us to respond quickly and purchase exactly what’s needed, we also appreciate donations of non-perishable food, new and good quality clothing, blankets, tents and sleeping bags. Items can be delivered to our Child, Youth and Family Services, 58 Dale Street, Port Adelaide, between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.

  • Who does the Winter Appeal help?

    The appeal supports individuals and families across South Australia—people experiencing homelessness, job loss, mental health challenges, and other tough situations made harder during winter.

  • Is my donation tax deductible?

    Yes, all donations of $2 or more are tax deductible. You’ll receive a receipt immediately after donating online.

  • Why is financial support more helpful than donated goods?

    Financial donations allow us to act quickly and provide tailored help—whether that’s covering a bill, buying warm clothes, or supplying a food voucher. It also reduces waste and storage costs, ensuring funds go where they’re needed most.

  • Why is my support important?

    Every winter, more South Australians are facing hardship—families struggling to keep the heater on, older people choosing between food and medication, and young people sleeping rough. Your support helps meet these urgent needs with dignity and compassion. By donating to UnitingSA’s Winter Appeal, you’re not just giving food, warmth or shelter—you’re giving hope. Together, we can make sure no one is left out in the cold.

Nobody can do everything but everyone can do something.

UnitingSA relies on the generosity of donors to help deliver innovative programs and support for people in need across metropolitan and regional South Australia.

“I would still be on the streets if it wasn’t for the support of UnitingSA. It means the world to me to have a house for my whole family and to be able to tuck my children in at night.â€

William,
Received support from UnitingSA Homelessness Services

Emergency Assistance Suburbs

UnitingSA is only able to provide material assistance (food and/or clothing vouchers etc.) to individuals and families residing in the Western suburbs of Adelaide.

Suburbs in our current service area are listed below.

Suburb
Postcode
Alberton
5014
Albert Park
5014
Birkenhead
5015
Cheltenham
5014
Ethelton
5015
Exeter
5015
Findon
5023
Fulham
5024
Fulham Gardens
5024
Gillman
5013
Glanville
5015
Grange
5022
Hendon
5014
Henley Beach
5022
Henley Beach South
5022
Kidman Park
5025
Largs Bay
5018
Largs North
5016
New Port Quays
5015
North Haven
5017
Osborne
5017
Ottoway
5013
Pennington
5013
Peterhead
5016
Port Adelaide
5015
Queenstown
5015
Rosewater
5013
Royal Park
5014
Seaton
5023
Semaphore
5019
Semaphore Park
5019
St Clair
5011
Taperoo
5017
Tennyson
5022
West Lakes
5021
West Lakes Shore
5020
Wingfield
5013
Woodville
5011
Woodville West
5011
West Beach
5024

NDIS referral form

Request for services

Client Advisory Workshop

Registration Form

Quality Care Advisory Committee

Nomination Form

A gift for the 40%

Items must be new, unopened and in their original packaging.

  • Toiletries packs
  • SunSmart items – bucket hats, UV protection sunglasses
  • Flameless decorative candles
  • Aftershave
  • Perfume
  • Light up magnifying mirror
  • Aroma diffuser sticks
  • Perfumed wardrobe or draw liners
  • Bluetooth Waterproof Speaker
  • Clock Radio AM/FM – with larger time, date and some include weather display too
  • Retro flip clock
  • Projector style night lights for children but also work well as a present for aged care residents
  • Low vision keyboard
  • Long handled or extendable shoe horn
  • Warm flat slippers
  • Mirror and comb
  • Mirror and old style bristle brush
  • Non slip style socks
  • Cotton cardigan, navy, forest green, grey, black
  • Cotton, wool or viscose vest or sleeveless jumper – available from Kmart, Suzanne Grae, Best Less, Harris Scarfe, Big W, Target
  • Cotton jumper, soft pastels or patterned
  • Soft occasional cushion or a throw blanket
  • Small canvas art or decorative items

Items of Greatest Need

Items must be new, unopened and in their original packaging.

  • Sets of sheets, single, double or queen – double is most popular
  • Twin pack of pillows
  • Quilts, doonas or blankets
  • Bath towel and face washer
  • Sleeping bags
  • Swags
  • Travel size toiletries packs for adults and children
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Nappies from newborn to toddler
  • Wipes safe for children

Toys & Gifts

Items must be new, unopened and in their original packaging.

Toys & gifts for children 0-10 years of age

  • Baby bath soap/toys
  • Soccer balls, basketballs, footballs
  • Lego or Duplo sets
  • Play-Doh single pots and sets
  • FurReal Pets
  • Frozen characters, colouring books and activities
  • Character bike helmets
  • Scooter, trike or bicycle
  • Disney character or similar dolls
  • Matchbox or Hot Wheels toys
  • Books/novels
  • Wooden puzzles – toddlers
  • Dinosaur model kits
  • Bug catchers
  • Board games like wooden Chess & Draughts, Jenga, Guess Who, Connect 4, tabletop Air Hockey, Scrabble – all ages
  • Disney/Harry Potter puzzles
  • Soft play mats for babies
  • Alphabet soft mats for toddlers
  • Summer/Christmas PJs
  • SunSmart items – bucket hats, UV protection sunglasses, UV-resistant swimsuits/rashies/Sun shades
  • Beach gear including towels

Tweens & Youth 10-18 years of age

  • Travel size toiletries packs
  • Dreamcatchers
  • Flip flops/thongs/slides
  • Flameless decorative candles
  • Aftershave
  • Perfume
  • Make-up packs
  • A5 journals with a pen
  • Mindfulness-style colouring books that include set of pens
  • Books/novels/non-fiction/photography/mindfulness
  • Puzzles or board games
  • Lipstick/lip gloss and small mirror
  • Boxed chocolates & lollies like Favourites, Party Mix, Snakes
  • Summer/Christmas PJs
  • Bluetooth waterproof speaker
  • SunSmart items – bucket hats, UV protection sunglasses, UV-resistant swimsuits/rashies
  • Beach gear including towels and bathers/boardies/thongs
  • Bikes
  • Helmets
  • Basic unlocked mobile phones or phone credit
  • Gift cards – Kmart, JB-HIFI, BIG W, Platypus Shoes, Skechers, General Pants, Cotton On $15, $25, $50, $75 or $100

Individual adults, parents & guardians

  • Travel size toiletries packs for adults and children
  • SunSmart items – bucket hats, UV protection sunglasses,
  • UV-resistant swimsuits/rashies/boardies
  • Mirror and comb or brush
  • Flameless decorative candles
  • Aftershave
  • Perfume
  • Boxed chocolates & lollies
  • Lipstick/lip gloss and small mirror
  • Puzzles or Bboard games
  • Books/novels/non-fiction/photography/mindfulness
  • Mindfulness-style colouring books that include set of pens
  • A5 journals with a pen
  • Make-up packs
  • Summer/Christmas PJs
  • Track pants size S, M, L
  • Zip up hoodies size S, M, L
  • Men’s short sleeve shirt size S, M , L – can be a polo style with a collar and a pocket
  • Ladies shirts size S, M, L – can be festive colours, floral cotton or viscose short sleeve shirt
  • Flat slippers, slides or thongs
  • Bluetooth waterproof speaker
  • Clock radio AM/FM
  • Basic unlocked mobile phones or phone credit

Festive Food Items

Items must be unopened and within their best-before or use-by date.
Items most needed:

  • Christmas bon-bons
  • Christmas serviettes
  • Packs of bottled water (600ml)
  • Fruit juice boxes for children (250ml)
  • Shortbread (200g packets)
  • Small Christmas puddings (microwavable)
  • Christmas fruit mince pies
  • Cadbury Sharepack Marshmallow Santa
  • Cadbury Sharepack Magical Elves
  • Smyths Christmas Lollies Mixture
  • Roses or Favourites boxed chocolates
  • Cadbury Dream White Christmas Family Block
  • UHT custard (1 litre)
  • UHT milk (1 litre)
  • UHT whipping cream
  • UHT small flavoured milks
  • Cranberry jelly/sauce
  • Self-saucing puddings (microwaveable)
  • Picnic size salt and pepper
  • Squeezy mayonnaise
  • Tomato sauce

Non-perishables

Items must be unopened and within their best-before or use-by date.
Items most needed:

  • Packs of bottled water (600ml)
  • Cup a Soup
  • Cup-a-Noodles
  • Ready-made pasta sauces in jars
  • Dry pasta; spaghetti, macaroni, penne are most popular
  • Dry rice noodles
  • UHT milk 1 litre, full cream, low fat, skim and lactose free
  • UHT milk alternatives: oat, almond, soy
  • UHT small flavoured milks
  • Spreads: vegemite, peanut butter, jam, honey
  • Breakfast cereals
  • Tea bags, instant coffee & herbal tea bags
  • Nesquik, Milo or hot chocolate mix
  • Muesli bars
  • Mixed nuts and trail mixes
  • Mixed dried fruit
  • Canned tuna, salmon, chicken or turkey
  • Canned soups
  • Canned baked beans & spaghetti
  • Canned vegetables: green beans, carrots, corn, peas, potatoes, mushrooms
  • Canned fruit: peaches, pears, fruit salad
  • Heinz Big & Chunky meals in a can range
  • Tom Piper Braised Steak & Onion in a can
  • Fray Bentos Steak & Gravy or Steak & Kidney pie in a can range
  • Shelf-stable meals (food that can be stored at room temperature, vacuum sealed)

Everyday Essentials

New, unused items most needed:

  • Travel size toiletries packs for adults and children
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Nappies from newborn to toddler
  • Wipes safe for children
  • Packs of bottled water (600ml)

Winter Essentials

New, unused items most needed:

  • Tents and tarps
  • Swags for two
  • Sleeping bags
  • Beanies, jumpers, socks, jackets, fleecy hoodies and track pants for all ages
  • Sets of flannelette or plain sheets, single, double or queen – double is most popular
  • Sleeping pillows
  • Quilts, doonas or blankets
  • Bath towels and face washers
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