As the Salvation Army on Tuesday launched its statewide Christmas Appeal with the aim of raising $3.1 million, Noosaville Salvos were busy putting together 150 hampers for local families and preparing a community Christmas lunch, their final weekly community lunch for the year.
Lieutenant Matthew Gluyas said Noosa Salvos had this year seen an increase in the numbers of people needing their help due to skyrocketing costs of living and fuel expenses.
“We’re seeing people we’ve never seen before,“ he said.
“It’s just building. There’s a bit of a stigma around asking for help but there shouldn’t be, life is tough for everyone at some time.“
The Salvos’ hampers will be going to individuals and families to provide them with some food, toys for the kids and gift vouchers to get them through that Christmas season.
Lieutenant Gluyas said the goods were a combination of purchases from community funds and donations from the generous local community but the Noosaville Salvation Army is hoping to raise $10,000 more to support children and their families over this Christmas period across Noosa and Coolum.
“We’re expecting even more individuals and families will need support so that no one is left in need and no child goes without a gift on Christmas Day,” he said.
“If you can afford to lend a hand or make a donation, you’ll be making a huge difference to those who are really struggling.
“We are in need of gift cards for teenagers, and toys and non-perishable foods, which can be dropped off at 6/8 Bartlett St, Noosaville. Or if you’d like to volunteer, please contact our office on 5442 4218.”
On Tuesday students from St Andrews College lent a hand to pack hampers as did some members of Noosa’s corporate sector.
“Leaving no one in need also means leaving no one lonely this Christmas,” Lieutenant Gluyas said.
“For those needing food or gifts, or feeling down or lonely this Christmas, please reach out to us at the Salvation Army Noosaville Corps by calling 5442 4218.
“For financial and emergency assistance, please reach out to our national financial support service on 1300 371 288.
“Most importantly, take time to remember what matters most at Christmas – connection, community, friends, and family. Reach out to people, spend time with those you care about, and if Christmas is a hard or lonely time for you, remember that your local Salvos family is always just down the road.”
The Salvation Army invites everyone to its events, church services or community programs during the festive season and if you’re looking for affordable Christmas shopping options consider Salvos Stores.
Last Christmas The Salvation Army nationally distributed more than 64,000 hampers and vouchers to those struggling to make ends meet, 26,000 gifts and toys to families who might otherwise have gone without, 130,000 meals and provided more than 66,000 beds for over 10,000 families in need of accommodation.
For more information visit salvationarmy.org.au or by calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58).
