By Gladys Barreta
Local funds raised through the Red Shield Appeal for the City of Brimbank will go towards programs to help assist with food and meals, homelessness, family violence, youth, drug & alcohol & financial counselling programs.
The 61st annual Red Shield Appeal will see volunteers collecting donations over the weekend of May 24 and 25 for Australia’s largest and longest-running door-knock appeal.
The City of Brimbank will be accepting donations directly at two corps sites within the City of Brimbank during office hours: either at 42 Devonshire Rd Sunshine or 2a Roseleigh Blvd, Sydenham.
Corps Officer Team Leader, Colin Reynolds said Salvos services within Brimbank will always welcome donations that assist the ability to help those in need within the community.
“Every 17 seconds, The Salvation Army in Australia helps someone in need. Many of those we assist in the City of Brimbank are seeking help because of the cost-of-living squeeze,” she said.
“Every Friday evening the Salvos in Sunshine distribute 350-400 meals to local community members dealing with food insecurity.
“This also includes free pet food for dogs and cats. This level of need is largely because of cost-of-living pressures. Issues like homelessness have also been exacerbated as a result of economic pressures and high/inaccessible rental accommodation in our local area.”
Ms Reynolds said Salvos services within Brimbank will always welcome donations that will assist those in the community who are most at need.
“These donations may be monetary but could also be clothing, non-perishable food items suitable for food hampers and household goods,” she said.
“We would also encourage Brimbank community members to reach out to us at the Salvos if they encounter anyone locally who looks like they might need help.”
Those who are willing to contribute and assist this year can give directly to Salvo fundraisers who will be operating a fundraising table at Sunshine Marketplace during the month of May.
A fundraising static point will also be present at Bunnings in Maribyrnong during May. Alternatively any online donations can be made by accessing the following website address redshieldappeal.salvos.org.au/
