How your flood appeal donation will be used in devastated communities
11 March 2022
As Aussies dig deep to help those in need, Salvos will be there for the long-haul
The Salvation Army is grateful so many Australians are digging deep to help flood affected communities throughout Queensland and New South Wales by donating to its 2022 Flood Appeal.
While the country looks on at the carnage caused by extreme rain and overflowing rivers resulting in the tragic loss of lives, homes, animals and irreplaceable belongings, Major Bruce Harmer, National Public Relations Secretary for The Salvation Army, shares how donations go towards assisting those affected by the floods.
“When tragedies like this occur, we are always overwhelmed by the public’s desire to help in any way they can but we are also aware that not everyone knows how their donation goes to helping those in crisis.” Major Harmer says.
“Donations made by the public to The Salvation Army’s Flood Appeal are used in direct support of those displaced and devastated by flood waters.”
“The Early and Long-Term Recovery phases of our disaster response, implemented during times of natural disaster, remain in place often for years following the natural disaster itself. Our Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) have been managing disaster relief for more than 50 years and we have a trusted history of working with governments and other agencies in supporting communities until they are back on their feet.”
The Salvation Army explains that there are three phases to a sustainable, long-term disaster effort – the Emergency Relief phase, the Early Recovery phase, and the Long-Term Recovery phase.
The Emergency Relief phase of a disaster response sees The Salvation Army Emergency Services and local Salvos meeting the immediate needs of people who have been affected by providing meals, emotional support and practical help where needed. During this current flood crisis, The Salvos Emergency Services teams have distributed more than 40,000 meals to those displaced by floodwaters and this emergency relief response continues.
As the floodwaters recede and the true nature of the devastation and personal loss becomes clear, The Salvation Army’s early Recovery teams move into Recovery Hubs and begin to provide grants to those displaced by the floodwaters as well as providing very important emotional care.
As The Salvation Army move into the Long-Term Recovery phase, Recovery Teams continue to assist with the needs of individuals and families as communities recover and rebuild. The Long-Term Recovery phase can take years and The Salvos continue to provide grants, services, emotional support and practical assistance over this time.
“The Salvation Army is committed to remaining in communities for the long-haul, journeying alongside individuals and families to see them get back on their feet. Donations are distributed to ensure we are restoring dignity and sustainability to Australians in need,” says Major Harmer.
The Salvation Army extends a special thanks to The Judith Neilson Foundation, Glencore, Queensland State Government, South 32, 7-Eleven, Westpac, AGL and Myer for their significant and generous support.
The Salvos also thank its disaster partner Woolworths for its ongoing support of the Salvation Army Emergency Services.
“We have seen in the past two years, through bushfires, floods, drought and COVID-19, the spirit of generosity shown in times of hardship. We are again calling on the Australian public to help us be there for those impacted by these floods. If you are able, please give to The Salvation Army’s 2022 Flood Appeal.” says Major Harmer.