Salvos need help to meet demand

Captain Susan Lamotte. Photo by Damjan Janevski. 237666_01

By Laura Michell

Hume and Whittlesea residents are being encouraged to dip deep for this year’s Red Shield Appeal.

The Craigieburn and Whittlesea City Salvos have launched a digital fundraising drive as part of this year’s appeal, which runs until the end of the month.

The appeal, which traditionally involves door knocking and roadside collections in May, has moved online the past two years in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Money raised by the Craigieburn and Whittlesea City Salvos will be used to support the local community.

According to the Salvation Army, money raised during this year’s appeal will almost entirely be used to help people affected by COVID-19.

Whittlesea City Salvos corp officer Susan Lamotte said: “As we emerge from lockdown, we are finding more people than ever are needing support.

“We are learning of some of the hardships that have occurred in the past 12 months and responding to continually escalating demand in our community.“

Craigieburn Salvation Army captains Matt and Jacqueline Gluyas said volunteers would also be out in the community to collect donations.

“The Hume and Whittlesea communities have always faithfully backed The Salvos,“ they said.

“The Salvos cannot do what we do without the generosity of the public in our community. If you have the means, please consider donating to the Red Shield Appeal. Your generosity and support helps us to give hope where it’s needed most. “

To donate visit: digitaldoorknock.salvationarmy.org.au/t/craigieburn-salvos or digitaldoorknock.salvationarmy.org.au/t/whittlesea-city-salvos