The Salvation Army is urging the Central Coast community to get involved in this year’s Red Shield Appeal, with funds raised locally staying local to support community services and programs in the area.
Launched at Mingara Recreation Club on May 4, the Coast appeal aims to raise $50,000 to support community members doing it tough.
More than 200 business leaders were at the launch, with MasterChef 2009 Winner Julie Goodwin the special guest speaker and community member Kylie Perry sharing the story of her personal journey and how the Salvos have helped her throughout her life.
Community members and volunteers can get involved by helping at community collection points, door knocking, or organising online fundraising or collections at workplaces, schools or sporting events.
“If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, now is the time,” Salvation Army Area Officer, Central Coast & Hunter, Major Mark Everitt, said.
“ Grab your friends, your workmates, or make it a family outing or a group activity for your club – just get involved.
“The community needs your support more than ever.”
Everitt said while all Australians were feeling the pinch of cost of living pressures, it was more extreme for some.
“The Salvos are seeing more and more people living below the breadline – skipping meals, going without prescribed medications, struggling to keep the lights on,” he said.
“We don’t want anybody on the Central Coast to struggle alone – times are tough, but we can get through it together, with your support.”
The Red Shield Appeal weekend is set for May 20 and 21, but there are a number of volunteer opportunities available throughout May.
Get in touch with your local Salvos by visiting salvationarmy.org.au.
“The Central Coast is known for being a generous and supportive region – and we know this year will be no different,” Everitt said.
“The Central Coast will do their bit to help their neighbours and their community.”
Now in its 59th year, the annual Red Shield Appeal funds vital community programs, including financial assistance, homelessness, family and domestic violence and drug and alcohol services.
Each year, through The Salvation Army’s nationwide network of services, the Salvos provide: assistance to one person every 17 seconds; more than 1.86 million sessions of care to people in need; more than a million bed nights to those in need of accommodation; and more than 1.52 million meals.
To donate or volunteer for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal, or if you need support from The Salvos, visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS.
You can also donate at any Salvos Store.
Source:
Salvation Army