The Salvation Army is gearing up for another Red Shield Appeal, urging the community to donate what they can as they experience increased demand for their services.
This year the charitable organisation’s annual donation drive is celebrating its 60th anniversary.
At the Salvation Army Brimbank Corps, which services the Melton region, volunteers work to facilitate a consistent food pantry among other services.
Captain Chad Cole said they had seen four times the amount of people turning up for support over the Christmas period compared to years prior.
“People are particularly feeling the pinch around housing expenses, rent is going up, so a lot of people are accessing our services for the first time in their lives,” he said.
“The only way we are able to meet the needs in our community is through generosity of our community.”
The Salvation Army will have tables set up at shopping centres where people can provide a donation that helps the organisation carry out its work.
Those interested can also participate in digital door knocking to raise funds independently online.
Mr Cole said every little bit helps.
“All of the funds that are raised, they help us provide support to disadvantaged families the whole year round,” he said.
“We really count on your support this time of year.”
