General News
29 May, 2022
Stress on families drive demand for Salvos assistance
STRESS upon families and individuals caused by the rising cost of living and a lack of housing has placed more demand on The Salvation Army as the organisation starts its flagship fundraising activity, the Red Shield Appeal.
The annual Red Shield Appeal raises millions of dollars nationally in support of victims of family and domestic violence, providing them with the resources needed to flee dangerous situations and get back on their feet.
This year’s Red Shield Appeal is notably more important, according to Salvation Army Tablelands Corps Leader Miriam Newton-Gentle, due to the recent stresses associated with housing and increased living costs.
“This year’s Red Shield Appeal is vital for us to meet as many as possible of the local needs amongst the community who are doing it tough with the housing crisis and the increased cost of living,” she said. “We have seen an increase in requests for our services over the past few months as people come to terms and try to make ends meet as the cost-of-living increases. “Money raised through the Red Shield Appeal in the main stays locally to meet the needs of the community in which it is given. “This year we will use these funds for the many diverse needs also including Christmas cheer through hampers.”
Over the past 12 months, the Salvos have supported nearly 6,000 women and children impacted by family and domestic violence nationally. This year, the Salvos are aiming to raise $5.4 million across Queensland and more specifically, $5,000 here on the Tablelands.
“From the generous support during last year’s Red Shield Appeal, we were able to initiate weekly welfare from Herberton Family Store, provide Christmas hampers and toys across the region,” Miriam said. “We also provided emergency assistance to those fleeing domestic violence situations.”
The Salvos are calling upon Tablelands locals to participate in their door knock weekend this weekend.
For more information contact the Atherton Tablelands Salvos on 4091 1410.
