The Salvation Army is urging locals to get involved with Australia’s biggest doorknock – The Salvos Red Shield Appeal Doorknock.
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The Salvation Army Illawarra regional public relations and appeals coordinator Karen Walker said the organisation was seeing an increase in demand for their services across the Illawarra.
Some people come back in and tell us they now have housing and a job, it’s so great when they have once been living in a tent on the beach and to hear their gratefulness and see their smile is thanks enough.
- Karen Walker
“Things such as the cost of electricity and food are hitting those hard who are doing it tough,” she said.
“We are also seeing an increasing amount of people who are homeless coming into our services, and especially now that the weather has become colder, they are in need of blankets and warm jackets.
“A lot of these people are living at the local beaches, either in tents or in shelters.”
Mrs Walker said she gains a lot of personal fulfilment from her role.
“I get a great deal of satisfaction when someone we have assisted comes back into our centre and shares that they are back on track and life has improved for them,” she said.
“Some people come back in and tell us they now have housing and a job, it’s so great when they have once been living in a tent on the beach and to hear their gratefulness and see their smile is thanks enough.”
The Salvos Red Shield Appeal Doorknock, aims to raise vital funds for their range of services and programs.
“In our roles we aim to fundraise money so some of our amazing services can be resourced and expand, services like our First Floor program and Carinya Cottage Women's Refuge,” Mrs Walker said.
“Last year we collected $24,775 in the Kiama area. This year we hope to raise $26,000.
“These donations will enable The Salvation Army to be able to bring hope where its needed most in our local community.”
The Salvos Red Shield Appeal Doorknock is Saturday May 27 and Sunday May 28.
To volunteer contact Karen Walker on 0438 243 487 or email nogra3@gmail.com.