Dig deep for Red Shield Appeal

The Salvation Army Caboolture is urging everyone to get involved in this year’s Red Shield Appeal, with funds raised locally staying local to support community services and programs.

They are aiming to raise $5.5 million throughout Queensland to support those doing it tough, with this year’s national Doorknock taking place on May 20 and 21.

Now in its 59th year, the annual Red Shield Appeal funds vital programs, including financial assistance, homelessness, family and domestic violence, as well as drug and alcohol services.

Lieutenant Danielle Cook from The Salvation Army said they need the support of the community to continue helping more Australians experiencing hardship.

“The Salvos cannot do what we do without the generosity of Queenslanders. If you have the means, please consider donating to the Red Shield Appeal or becoming a volunteer. Your support will help us to leave no one in need,” Danielle said.

“If you have ever thought about volunteering, now is the time. Grab your friends, your workmates, or make it a family outing or a group activity for your club. Too many Australians are struggling to make ends meet and they need your support now more than ever.

“Caboolture is known for being a generous and supportive community – and we know this year will be no different.”

With many Australian struggling to make ends meet due to cost-of-living pressures, Danielle said there has been an increase in the number of people going without the basic essentials.

“The Salvos are seeing more and more people skipping meals, going without prescribed medications, and turning the lights off,” Danielle said.

“We don’t want anybody in Caboolture to be left alone during these tough times. But we can get through it together, with your support.”

To donate or volunteer for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal, or if you need support from The Salvos, visit their website or call 13 SALVOS. You can also donate at any Salvos Store.

How funds from the Red Shield Appeal help the community

The Red Shield Appeal is The Salvation Army’s main source of philanthropic income and in 2022, it raised $112 million for much-needed programs and services.

These funds help deliver emergency and financial assistance; Refuge for women in crisis; Shelters for those facing homelessness; Crisis, short and long term housing; Youth drop-in centres and support programs; Emergency and disaster relief (immediate support, all the way to long-term recovery); Drug and alcohol addiction recovery and rehabilitation support; Employment training programs; And chaplains for rural and outback areas, as well as prisons.

About The Salvation Army

• The Salvation Army was established in Australia in 1880, with Queensland operations beginning in 1885.
• The Salvation Army Australia is a religious not-for-profit organisation with more than 340 established churches across Australia.
• Every 17 seconds, the Salvation Army Australia helps someone at one of their services of programs, with three people being supported every minute.
• Services the Salvation Army Australia provide include alcohol and other drug services, chaplaincy, disaster recover and emergency, family and domestic violence, funerals, aged care, homelessness, Red Shield Defence, Salvos stores and op shops, specialist parenting programs and youth services.