Illawarra residents are being called upon to hit the streets - and their keyboards - for this year's Red Shield Appeal.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Salvation Army launched its 2021 Red Shield appeal in the Illawarra on Wednesday. The national fundraising goal is $32 million, and in this region organisers hope to raise $150,000 on the doorknock weekend on May 29-30.
The Salvation Army's Karen Walker encouraged residents to sign up to knock on doors in their local area, or to become 'digital doorknockers'.
"Last year we weren't able to doorknock in person due to the COVID pandemic, so we introduced 'digital doorknockers' who could use a digital platform to collect for us online," she said.
"This year people can still do that, and they can also sign up to do face-to-face doorknocks in their street or block if they wish - and we can provide them with a collector bag with and ID lanyard and receipt book.
"We will also be out in shopping centres, outside Bunnings, and at sporting fields to collect funds."
Ms Walker said the Red Shield Appeal was the "lifeblood" of the Salvation Army, funding the organisation's various social welfare programs.
"In the Illawarra the appeal funds the majority of our social services and programs," she said.
"This includes the Carinya women's and children's service - a refuge for people experiencing domestic violence and/ or homelessness.
"It also includes our First Floor program which offers counselling and support groups, mental health and addiction services.
"As well the appeal funds the word we do in the community - such as handing out food parcels and vouchers to people in need."
On Wednesday, over 120 Illawarra business leaders attended the appeal launch at City Beach Function Centre, where event sponsor Heard McEwan Legal was acknowledged for 21 years of support.
"The support of local businesses is vital," Ms Walker said. "Demand for our services has continued to rise since the start of the pandemic.
"With the end of payment assistance like JobKeeper, we're only seeing more people needing support due to financial difficulties and job losses.
"Unfortunately that increased pressure on families is also leading to an increase in demand for our women's refuge, as rates of domestic violence rise."
Call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) to donate or volunteer for this year's Red Shield Appeal.
We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.
