The Salvation Army on the Central Coast is calling on the community to sign up for this year’s Red Shield Appeal, raising local funds to support people who are struggling most in our region.
“The last few years have been incredibly tough for the hardest hit in our community, and for many that shows no sign of slowing down,” The Salvation Army’s Major Gary Masters said.
“We see so many people grappling with increased stress and uncertainty as everyday living has become unaffordable, leading to housing stress, financial hardship and an inability to get by.
“At the Salvos we are privileged to support those in our area experiencing hardship, but we cannot do this without the ongoing and loyal support of the community.”
The Salvation Army officially kicked off the campaign at the Red Shield Appeal Launch on April 3 at Mingara Recreation Club where Laurie Daley, 2025 NSW State of Origin Blues Coach and Rugby League Hall of Fame inductee, was the keynote speaker.
All money raised will be used by the Salvos on the Central Coast to ensure they can help locals in need when they need it most.
The funds raised on the Central Coast for the Red Shield Appeal will stay in the local community and will be used to meet the specific needs faced by the most disadvantaged and vulnerable.
The following programs on the Central Coast rely heavily on the support of the Red Shield Appeal: the Oasis Youth Centre in Wyong; the Dooralong Transformation Centre; Moneycare Financial Counselling in Wyong and Erina; Doorways Community Support Services at Gorokan, Umina Beach, Green Point, Long Jetty, and Wyong; and the The Salvation Army Emergency Services at Erina.
Earlier this year, the Salvos released their Social Justice Stocktake; a survey which polled more than 16,000 Australians and provided national, state and electoral reports highlighting the biggest issues faced by communities.
On the Central Coast, it was found that 76% of people identified the issue of housing affordability and homelessness as the top concern for the community, with the second being financial hardship and inclusion (53%).
“As a proud Central Coast local, I know this community looks after its own,” Chair of the Central Coast Red Shield Appeal Andrew Brand said.
“The Red Shield Appeal is our chance to step up and show that no-one needs to face hardship alone.
“Every dollar raised here stays here – helping real people, right here on the Coast.
“Let’s be the hope our community needs right now.”
The Red Shield Appeal culminates in the Red Shield Weekend, May 24 and 25, with a number of ways to get involved throughout the month of May, volunteering by collecting at local shopping centres and other locations, online fundraising, organising a collection at your workplace, school or sporting event and making a donation.
To donate, volunteer or if you are need of support, please reach out to your local Salvos or visit salvationarmy.org.au
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