The Salvation Army is calling on Pakenham community groups, sporting clubs, workplaces, families and individuals to get involved in its annual Red Shield Appeal doorknock to help raise $7.5 million over the weekend of 26 – 27 May.
Salvation Army Pakenham’s Lieutenant Dale Saunders said the Salvos are aiming to mobilise 70,000 volunteers nationwide for the doorknock to help meet the growing demand on its services.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of what we do. They are our largest workforce, which enables the continued success and improvement of our vital social programs,” he said.
“These include emergency housing for people in crisis, drug and alcohol rehabs, financial counselling services, as well as a host of social programs. We cannot do this alone.
“We all have the opportunity to be beacons of hope for others and by partnering with the Salvos for just a few hours over the Red Shield Appeal weekend, you can give hope where it’s needed most.”
The money raised from the Red Shield Appeal doorknock will go towards The Salvation Army’s vast network of social services to help those in need.
In a typical week, the Salvos provide over 17,000 beds for those suffering homelessness, 40,000 meals for the hungry, over 1,400 financial counselling sessions and refuge for over 100 women affected by domestic violence.
Lieutenant Saunders says every donation to the Red Shield Appeal can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
“Hardship does not discriminate” he said.
“More and more people from all walks of life are turning to The Salvation Army for assistance.
“We need the public’s support now more than ever.”
Following last year’s success, The Salvation Army will once again be rolling out its donation tap points across 400 locations in Australia.
This community fundraising initiative, sponsored by Community Sector Banking, was the first of its kind within the non-profit sector when it was introduced in Australia last year.
The service provides more effective, safer, and more meaningful donation opportunities across the country.
To volunteer for this year’s Red Shield Appeal weekend, call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or register online at salvos.org.au.
