Shoalhaven Salvation Army launches annual Christmas appeal

As Australians near the end of a second year that has been impacted by social and economic burden of COVID-19, the Salvos anticipate the needs of Aussies at Christmas will reach a new peak under the pressure of the pandemic.

"Christmas is the busiest time of the year for The Salvos across the country, and we expect this year to be no different," said Captain Matthew Sutcliffe, of Shoalhaven Salvos.

"While Christmas is a time of joy and celebration for many, others doing it tough in our community find it an extremely difficult period for them personally.

"The increased isolation, financial stress and mental health impacts of COVID-19 this year will only exacerbate these issues.

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"The Salvos want to leave no one in need this Christmas, and we need the generosity of the public this year to once again partner with us in support of locals doing it really tough."

Last year during the Christmas period, The Salvation Army distributed more than 64,000 hampers and vouchers worth over $1.89 million to those finding it almost impossible to make ends meet and gave out over 26,000 gifts and toys to families in need of a hand.

The Salvos also supported the vulnerable by providing more than 130,000 meals across the country, more than 66,000 beds for those needing a place to stay and supporting more than 10,000 families with accommodation during the festive season.

"We are also in need of our local community to dig deep and provide donations to The Salvation Army to ensure that we can support our local community in need this Christmas," Captain Sutcliffe said.

"We are in need of toys, non-perishable food and gift cards and these can be dropped off at Shoalhaven Salvos, 162 St Anns Street, Nowra East."

The Salvos are planning to have a number of COVID-Safe Christmas events and church services this festive season. To find out more about local Christmas activity visit www.salvationarmy.org.au

Shoalhaven Salvos will hold its Christmas Day Service at 9am on December 25, Shoalhaven Salvation Army, 162 St Anns Street, Nowra East. All are welcome.

For financial and emergency assistance, reach out to our national financial support service on 1300 371 288 (9am-5pm Monday to Friday).

The Salvation Army's network of for-purpose retail stores, Salvos Stores, also provide a great affordable option for your Christmas shopping this year.

Whether it is a fresh Christmas Day outfit, present ideas for the family or a DIY decoration project for the house, there is always something special to be found.

Not only does Salvos Stores provide great value on quality items, it is also environmentally friendly and supports the work of The Salvos across the country - and 100 per cent of the profits raised through Salvos Stores go towards The Salvation Army Community Programs supporting Australians doing it tough.

"Christmas offers us a time to reflect and connect with one another and celebrate the joy of community," Captain Sutcliffe said.

"Connection will be more important than ever this year, so look out for your mate, check in on family and embrace the true meaning of Christmas. From all of us at The Salvos, we wish you a very happy Christmas."

To leave no one in need this Christmas, please donate to The Salvation Army's Christmas Appeal at salvationarmy.org.au or by calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58).

Donations can also be made in person at any Salvos Store and Kmart store, or round up your instore purchase at any Myer store.

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