The Salvation Army is urging people in the Townsville area to participate and help volunteer in this year’s annual Red Shield Appeal doorknock campaign taking place on May 28-29.
The Salvos want to mobilise 60,000 people across the nation to help with their critical 2016 doorknock appeal with the aim of raising $8 million.
Townsville-based Salvation Army officer Captain Andrew Pembleton said the goal locally is to raise $500,000 during the appeal.
“Too many people in Townsville are doing it tough and urgently need help, especially after QNI shut down,” Captain Hambleton said.
“Hundreds of families in the Townsville area are in despair and need a helping hand,” he said.
Major Bruce Harmer from the Salvos said by giving just a few hours of your time, you can help the Salvos in a massive way to change the lives of others for the better.
“Statistics show in a typical week The Salvation Army provides 100,000 meals for hungry people, 2000 beds for homeless, distributes up to 8000 food vouchers, provides refuge to 500 victims of abuse and much more. Every day, 3400 people receive aged care assistance from The Salvation Army.”
The Salvos also provide extensive support for children including toys for children, camps for underprivileged kids, support groups for children who have lost someone to suicide and much more.
Every single day 1300 people receive family welfare and material aid through The Salvation Army’s Doorways Program, and more than 30,000 Australians now go through the Salvos’ Bridge Program every year – helping people facing a range of addictions including alcohol, other drugs and gambling.
“It’s deeply disturbing to see so many people facing tough times. Being part of the fundraising initiative gives ordinary Aussies a unique chance to be part of something big that has a powerful mission – to help others.
“We know people in Townsville agree with us when we say it’s appalling to see so many marginalized Australians trying to make ends meet from week to week.”
To volunteer call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or register online at salvos.org.au/volunteer.
