Shield appeal supports those doing it tough

WITH many residents struggling financially due to cost of living pressures, the Salvation Army within the Goldfields region is asking locals to dig deep and become involved in this year’s Red Shield Appeal.

In its 62nd year, Australia’s largest and longest-running door knock appeal is aiming to raise $41 million nationally, funding grassroots social, wellbeing and emergency relief programs.

“We know that people are doing it really tough in our community right now, as global uncertainty coupled with further increases in the cost of living locally puts an incredible strain on individuals and families,” said Salvos external communications manager for Victoria Major Warren Elliot.

“We know that many are on the edge of breaking point as they struggle to make ends meet.

“That is why we are calling on those in the Goldfields to dig deep, get involved in the Red Shield Appeal, and be the hope our community desperately needs right now.”

Funds raised in the Goldfields Red Shield Appeal stay in the area.

“There is no better way to support those doing it tough than by donating or volunteering with us this year,” said Elliot.

“We can’t do our work in the community without you, so we are calling on people to partner with The Salvation Army this Red Shield Appeal and see the powerful transformation that takes place when we come together to support our fellow Aussies in need.”

The Red Shield Appeal runs through the month, culminating in the Red Shield Weekend, 30 and 31 May.

As well as making donations, volunteers are needed to collect at local shopping centres and other locations, for door knocking, online fundraising, organising collections at workplaces, schools and sporting events.

The Salvation Army assists people every day with homelessness, family and domestic violence, youth, drug and alcohol rehabilitation and financial hardship.

Anyone who would like to donate or volunteer for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal can visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS.

Donations can also be made at any Salvos Store.