THE Salvation Army in Sunraysia is urging the local community to get involved in this year’s Red Shield Appeal which will raise vital funds to continue supporting the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in the region.
Across the country, the Salvos are aiming to raise $38 million for the Red Shield Appeal, which is Australia’s largest and longest-running door-knock appeal.
This year is 60 years of the Red Shield Appeal and locally, the goal is to raise $31,000 to help continue current community programs.
Major Debbie Serojales, from The Salvation Army Sunraysia, said the organisation is seeing more people through its doors every week.
"Families have never done it this tough before and people are feeling the pinch," Major Serojales said.
"They are skipping meals, unable to afford utility bills or medication for themselves or their children -- this is why we need your support,” she said.
Major Serojales said there were many ways people could get involved – collections in shopping centres or other key locations, online fundraising or organising a collection at your workplace, school or sporting event.
“There is no better way to support your community than through volunteering and we would love to have you as part of our Red Shield Appeal this year," she said.
"Grab a mate, some work colleagues or the entire family and join us -- we can’t do our work in the community without you.”
Locally, Salvos will be collecting from May 13 to 25 and anyone who wishes to give some time should reach call 5023 1647.
All funds raised locally will remain in the local community, allowing the Salvos to meet the specific needs of the most disadvantaged and marginalised members of the region.
Each year in Sunraysia the Salvos support more than 4000 families with food, assistance with bills and other needs at its Community Support Services.
This year, the Salvos expect to provide meals for up to 5000 people at its twice weekly community meals which have doubled in size this year.
The Salvos also continue to support hundreds of families during its Christmas gift giving and Christmas Day lunch, thanks to money raised locally during the Red Shield Appeal.
To donate or volunteer for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal or if anyone needs support from the Salvos call 5023 1647 or donate directly at its digital doorknock.
The link is pinned to the "Salvation Army Sunraysia" Facebook page.
