Vinnies Van

Since joining forces in September 2020 with the New South Wales branch of St Vincent de Paul Society (“Vinnies”) for a three-year partnership, the Lyone Foundation has donated approximately $160,000 to Vinnies for the Vinnies Van outreach service and the Vinnies Flood Appeal in 2022.

The Lyone family itself has a long-time personal connection with Vinnies, as COS Founder and Chairman Dominique Lyone, shares: “When we first came to Australia, we needed a lot of help and if it wasn’t for charities like St Vincent de Paul, we would definitely not be here today.” After the local parish became aware of the Lyone family needs and activated support, Vinnies showed up and found a virtually empty pantry and refrigerator. They then immediately organised for basics to be delivered, including vouchers to use at the local butchers, appropriate clothing for the winter months and basic furniture items.

The Vinnies Van outreach service provides meals and snacks, blankets, toiletries, hot beverages, and, most importantly, companionship and referrals where needed to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The Vans operate across Greater Sydney and in targeted regional areas, ensuring they reach highly at-risk communities with additional wrap-around support and typically involves volunteers who travel to various locations within Sydney, often during evening hours, in specially equipped vans.

“The Lyone Foundation’s yearly donation of $30,000 has been particularly crucial, as we’ve seen a steady increase in the need for support in the community this year, what with the lasting impacts of COVID lockdowns and cost of living crisis,” states Priscilla Leong, Senior Corporate Partnerships Coordinator, Vinnies NSW. Priscilla confirms support such as the Lyone Foundation helps ensure that Vinnies can continue to be there for people in need.

Additionally, in response to devastating rainfall and the resulting hardships faced by communities along Australia's east coast in 2022, the Lyone family generously donated $100 per COS employee to the Vinnies flood appeal. This significant contribution was divided between Vinnies NSW and Vinnies QLD, providing essential support to affected families. Vinnies utilised the funds to provide food supplies, financial assistance for flood-related expenses, clothing for those who lost belongings, and aid in re-establishing households with bedding, furniture, and appliances.

Key Points:

• Lyone Foundation has donated $75,000 to Vinnies Vans outreach service in FY23.
• Vinnies Van outreach service provides meals and snacks, blankets, toiletries, hot beverages, and, most importantly, companionship and referrals where needed to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
• The Lyone family donated $100 per COS employee in March 2022, to the Vinnies Flood Appeal from the Lyone Foundation. The donation was made on behalf of COS employees split amongst Vinnies NSW and Vinnies QLD to help our fellow Aussies get back on their feet.