The Salvation Army Launches Australian Disaster Relief Appeal
8 January 2013
The Salvation Army has officially launched the Australian Disaster Relief Appeal in response to the bushfire emergencies currently affecting communities in NSW and other communities across the country.
Salvation Army volunteers, as well as personnel from other agencies, are currently providing immediate assistance to communities affected by bushfire across south-east Australia. This assistance will initially include meals, water as well as moral and emotional support to families and individuals in need.
Salvation Army spokesperson, Major Bruce Harmer, says, “We cannot begin to understand the stress and anxiety people go through when disaster strikes. However, The Salvation Army is well placed to assist individuals and families who find themselves in need and has extensive experience in the area of disaster relief,” said Major Harmer.
“Salvation Army Emergency Services teams are on standby and have now been deployed to evacuation centres in fire affected areas. These teams consist of specially trained volunteers and will be providing both material and emotional support to those people in need.”
The Salvation Army is calling upon the Australian community to give generously at this time to assist and provide help to those in need.
Australians wishing to donate to the Australian Disaster Relief Appeal can do so online at salvos.org.au, by phoning 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or in person at any Westpac Bank branch across Australia. Donations over $2 are tax deductible.