The Salvation Army is launching their annual Christmas appeal on the Sunshine Coast, which will help The Salvos support individuals and families in the local community who are experiencing hardship this Christmas.
The rising cost of living, interest rate and rental price hikes has meant that more people have been turning to The Salvation Army for support, making this year’s Christmas Appeal vitally important. The Salvos are aiming to raise $25 million nationally, so nobody struggles alone this Christmas.
The Salvation Army’s Public Relations Secretary for Queensland Simon Gregory said, “Christmas is the busiest time of the year for The Salvos, and this Christmas we expect the additional stresses of this year will result in more people than ever struggling to afford Christmas for themselves and their families.”
“The Salvation Army are here for you. Whether it is practical support like food or presents, or if you are feeling down or lonely this Christmas, reach out to us at The Salvos.”
There are many ways that you can partner with The Salvos to support your community this Christmas, including lending a hand, 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 Sunshine Coast area. You can also visit salvationarmy.org.au.
During the Christmas period last year, thanks to the generosity of the Australian public, The Salvation Army nationally:
– Distributed tens of thousands of food hampers to those struggling to make ends meet,
– Received over 250,000 gifts and toys for families who might otherwise have gone without,
– Provided over 132,000 meals, and provided more than 66,000 bed nights for families in need of accommodation during the festive season.
“It is more important than ever to band together as a community and lend a hand to those doing it tough. By believing in our good work and supporting our Christmas Appeal, The Salvation Army can continue providing wraparound services and tailored support and bring much needed hope and help to Sunshine Coast families in crisis, ensuring nobody struggles alone this Christmas,” Simon said.
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 special 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. It is good for the planet, good for your wallet and good for people in need.
“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. From all of us at The Salvos, we wish you a peace and hope-filled Christmas,” Simon said.
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.
