South Australians struggling to pay bills and put food on the table will be treated to a night at the movies as part of UnitingSA’s annual Winter Appeal.

UnitingSA has launched a Pay it Forward initiative which allows generous donors to gift movie tickets as part of UnitingSA’s campaign to support vulnerable people during the coldest months of the year.

The not-for-profit organisation is hosting a Movie Night at the Odeon Cinema in Semaphore on Friday, 30 June where the tickets can be used to watch newly released films Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny or Sweet As.

All ticket sales for the event, including the Pay it Forward option, will also help raise much-needed funds for UnitingSA to deal with an overwhelming increase in calls for help from people struggling with cost of living pressures.

UnitingSA CEO Jenny Hall said requests for emergency financial assistance had jumped 40 percent in recent months, and homelessness services had answered nearly 7500 calls for help in just under a year.

“Many of these calls are from people who have never needed this type of assistance before,” Ms Hall said.

“People are going without meals, without medicines, or without essential items and have very little or no income for any luxuries. Going to the movies is just not an option.”

“Our annual Winter Appeal helps to raise vital funds and donations of everyday essential items such as food, blankets and swags.

“People on the lowest incomes are often the most socially isolated in our community. A free night at the movies will give people a break from the pressures they face, and the chance for social connection as well.

“Paying it Forward by buying someone a $19 movie ticket to our Winter Appeal Movie Night is a beautiful way to show someone that they are not alone and that people want to help.

“Something so little can really mean so much to someone in need.”

 

EVENT DETAILS

UnitingSA Winter Appeal Movie Night

DATE: Friday, 30 June 2023

MOVIES: Choose from Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny movie, or Australian film Sweet As
LOCATION: Odeon Star Cinemas, Semaphore

TIME: Doors open at 6pm

COST: $19 per head

Find out more about UnitingSA’s Movie Night and the Pay it Forward initiative at unitingsa.com.au/movie-night

UnitingSA is also calling for donations of NEW winter and everyday essentials and non-perishable items, including tents, tarps, swags, sleeping bags, warm clothing items, nappies, and toiletry items.

Non-perishable food items are also in high demand. Any donations would be gratefully accepted.

These donations can be made at UnitingSA’s Emergency Relief Centre at 58 Dale Street, Port Adelaide between 9am and 3pm, Monday to Friday.

Cash donations are always welcome. Donations can be made at at unitingsa.com.au/winter-appeal