This Christmas, The Salvation Army is encouraging Gosford locals to connect with their community, whether it is through participating in Christmas activities, giving a hand up to someone in need, or reaching out to the Salvos for help.
Christmas is one of the hardest times of the year for Australians doing it tough, but Gosford Salvation Army Officer, Major Melanie-Anne Holland, said just a small contribution can make a big difference in helping to give hope where it’s needed most. “For just $29, you can provide food on the table and a present under the Christmas tree to help give hope to someone in need this Christmas,” Major Holland said.
Research from The Salvation Army has revealed that 95 per cent of all households who access the Salvos’ emergency services are living in poverty, with 74 per cent experiencing food insecurity and 67 per cent reporting that food affordability is their greatest daily challenge. “At Christmas, the Salvos will serve over 100,000 meals, distribute more than 500,000 gifts and toys, and support more than 70,000 families in need, but we can only do this with the support of the Australian public,” Major Holland said. Christmas is the busiest time of year for the Salvos.
The Salvation Army in Gosford is running its annual Christmas Cheer operation, to provide toys and food for those in need. It is also preparing for a special Christmas Day service. On Christmas Day, The Salvation Army is inviting the public to gather to celebrate the hope and joy of Christmas. The Christmas Day service will be held at 9:30am at The Salvation Army Gosford base in Greenpoint. All are welcome to attend. “Whether you are by yourself, or with friends and family, Christmas is a time that is best spent together. “So join us, so we can share the true spirit of Christmas,” Major Holland said.
Source: Media release, Nov 11 Lea Coghlan, The Salvation Army