The Salvation Army is calling on the local communityto dig deep this Christmas as they launch their annual Christmas Appeal, aimed at helping those who need support during the festive season.
The Christmas period can intensify financial and emotional pressures for those already experiencing disadvantage.
As high prices continue to put stress on local individuals and families, The Salvos goal of $29 million for their Christmas Appeal this year is vital to ensure people get the help they need this Christmas.
“For the Salvos, Christmas is the busiest time of the year, and this year will be no different,” said the External Communications Manager for Victoria Warren Elliot from The Salvation Army.
“All year, we have been journeying alongside the Gippsland community, and we know that Christmas will prove to be a real challenge for many people.
“For some, the idea of celebrating Christmas may seem out of reach, as they can’t even work out where their next meal or utility bill will come from, both for themselves and their children.
“That’s why The Salvos are here – to support you when you need it most. Whether it is for practical support like food or presents, or if you are feeling lonely or isolated this Christmas, please reach out to The Salvation Army.
“We are here for you.”
There are many ways that you can also partner with The Salvos to support your community this Christmas, including lending a hand through volunteering, donating products such as gifts and food, or offering a financial donation to our Christmas Appeal.
The Salvation Army also host a number of special community celebrations during the festive season.
For more information on how you can support this Christmas, or to find out about local events, please contact your nearest Salvation Army centre in the Gippsland area.
You can also visit The Salvation Army website.
During the Christmas period last year, thanks to the generosity of the Australian public, The Salvation Army nationally:
– Received over 350,000 gifts and toys for families who might otherwise have gone without,
– provided over 177,000 meals to those experiencing homelessness,
– and provided more than 89,000 bed nights for families in need of accommodation during the festive season.
The Salvation Army also encourages community members looking for affordable Christmas shopping options to consider Salvos Stores.
Whether gift-shopping or looking for Christmas decor, there’s always something unique to be found.
Not only will you save on your Christmas shopping, but 100 per cent of the profits raised support The Salvos community work across the country.
“The Salvos can’t support people this Christmas without the generosity of our local community, so we would love to see everyone dig deep this year in whatever capacity you are able to,” Warren Elliot said.
“That could look like donating to our Christmas Appeal, volunteering, or attending our local events.
Reach out to us, and together we can be the hope that our community desperately needs this Christmas.”
To find out about local Christmas event information, to donate to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal, or if you need support from The Salvos, please visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58).
Donations can also be made at any Salvos Store.
