Red Shield Doorknock 2016: The Salvation Army Needs Your Support

The Salvation Army is asking Australians to spare a few hours over the weekend of May 28 and 29 to help collect for the annual Red Shield Doorknock.

The Salvos want to mobilise 60,000 people across the nation to help bring hope where it’s needed most.

Major Bruce Harmer said it is deeply disturbing to see many families facing tough times. He says being part of Australia’s biggest Doorknock Appeal gives ordinary Aussies a unique chance to be part of something big that has a powerful mission- to help others.

“For the Doorknock to be successful The Salvation Army needs the support of thousands of people across the country. We need people to be local hope-givers in their communities, ” said Major Bruce Harmer.

“We know people agree with us when we say it’s appalling to see so many marginalised Australians trying to make ends meet from week to week. The people who are struggling aren’t just doing it tough, they are doing it extremely tough,” Major Harmer said.

Powerful statistics show in a typical week The Salvation Army provides 100,000 meals for the hungry, 2,000 beds for the homeless, distributes up to 8,000 food vouchers and provides refuge for 500 victims of abuse.

The Salvation Army provides extensive support for youth and children through their youth support network, camps for underprivileged kids and support groups for children who have lost someone to suicide. The Salvos also operate a number of homeless and refuge centres nationally and regional and remote communities are supported by the rural chaplaincy program. Annually, more than 30,000 Australians battling alcohol, drugs and gambling addiction go through the Salvo’s Bridge Program.

Major Harmer says The Salvation Army would not be able to deliver its high quality services without the support of the Australian public.

“It goes without saying that we are so deeply thankful to the Australian community for its massive support of the Salvos. It enables us to give hope where it’s needed most.”

The Salvos say nobody should have to go it alone. The target for this year’s Doorknock is $8 million.