THE Salvation Army is calling on community groups, sporting clubs, workplaces, families and individuals to get involved in its annual Red Shield Appeal doorknock to help raise $7.5m this weekend.
The money raised during the Red Shield Appeal doorknock on May 26 and 27 will go towards The Salvation Army’s vast network of social services to help those in need.
In a typical week, the Salvos provides over 17,000 beds for the homeless, 40,000 meals for the hungry, over 1400 financial counselling sessions and refuge for over 100 women affected by domestic violence.
Salvation Army Major Pam Marshall said the Salvos will aim to mobilise 70,000 volunteers for the doorknock to help meet the growing demand for its services.
“Hardship does not discriminate – more and more people from all walks of life are turning to The Salvation Army for assistance,” she said.
“We need the public’s support now more than ever.”
Ms Marshall said every donation to the Red Shield Appeal made a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
“Just $28 helps children at risk of homelessness participate in an after-school program, $60 provides a food hamper so that a struggling family doesn’t have to go hungry and $79 provides one day of support for a family to find a home,” she said.
“Even a relatively small contribution can have an immeasurable impact on someone’s life.”
She added volunteers played a crucial role in providing a hand up to some of the most vulnerable and marginalised people in our community.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of what we do, they are our largest workforce, which enables the continued success and improvement of our vital social programs,” Ms Marshall said.
“The Salvation Army has a trusted history in helping Australians in need for over 135 years, but we cannot continue to meet this need without the public’s support.
“We all have the opportunity to be beacons of hope for others and by partnering with the Salvos for just a few hours over the Red Shield Appeal weekend, you can give hope where it’s needed most.”
To volunteer for this year’s Red Shield Appeal register online at salvos.org.au or to donate call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) visit the website.
Donations can be made in person at any Westpac branch or Salvos store.
