The Salvation Army is aiming to raise an ambitious $38 million for its 60th year of the Red Shield Appeal and it is calling for local help.
The annual Red Shield Appeal weekend runs from May 25 and 26, but the charity encourages locals to get involved in volunteering opportunities throughout the month of May.
Sunbury Corps officer Shaun Featherston said reaching the 60th year anniversary shows two things.
“[First is] our commitment as The Salvation Army to the nation and our local community is strong, loyal and we’re in it for the long haul,” he said.
“The second is unfortunate in the sense there is still so much need and injustice we are battling for our nation- so whilst this remains the case we will be here.”
Mr Featherston said while the $38 million goal might seem big and unachievable, everyone should just give what they can to make a difference.
“Locally we have a goal to reach $10,000 – so let’s … see this goal achieved and then some.
“The funds raised within our local community and surrounds help fund and operate a number of groups/programs that directly benefit our community.”
With many ways to get involved locally, Mr Featherston encouraged residents to jump on board to lend a helping hand.
“If you see us around the community with a collection tin, please give what you can. If you’d like to volunteer to help us with the collections, please get in contact.
“Or if you have a group, business, club, school or families and individuals who can run a food drive collection – that would help us to continue to provide food hampers to the community.”
Digital doorknock appeal: digitaldoorknock.salvationarmy.org.au/o/sunbury-salvos
Zoe Moffatt
