GAWLER Salvation Army is once again on the lookout for volunteers to assist with its annual Red Shield Appeal throughout May and June.
The appeal is the Army’s primary Australia-wide fundraising drive, which helps support the charity’s support for people in need.
In Gawler, the proceeds will go towards emergency relief for those doing it tough, community groups for young families, and community youth groups.
Gawler Salvation Army major Darren Cox said he hoped the Gawler Red Shield Appeal could raise $20,000.
“It’s a focal point for the Salvation Army’s fundraising every year and it’s where a majority of our funding comes for community projects,” he said.
“I’ve been involved in six in Gawler, and I see the benefit of the community engagement and partnering with the community to do the work that the Salvos do.
“We always get a great reception from Gawler, there’s always an understanding that the Salvation Army is going to do the best with the money that they can.
“All the money is kept locally; we’re hoping the money will be used to really benefit those within our community who need engagement with a network.”
This year’s Red Shield Appeal is the Gawler Salvation Army’s first at its new Riverside home on Edith Street, Gawler East.
To celebrate the establishment of the building, the Salvos will be selling waffles at their on-site café and around Gawler as part of the Red Shield drive.
Maj. Cox is still searching for volunteers to assist with the appeal, with help needed for static fundraising spots, doorknockers and waffle sellers.
“We’re interested in people forming a team and going door-to-door, which is what the Red Shield Appeal was originally known for,” he said.
“Clubs, service groups and workplaces can all get involved with selling waffles, too.
“It is hard work and it’s a bit of a slog, but to know there is the money to sustain what the Salvation Army is known for is quite good.”
The Red Shield Appeal doorknock campaign will take place from May 24-26, where volunteers will walk the streets of Gawler, Willaston, Evanston and Hewett asking for donations.
“There’s a big area we try to cover in Gawler, hence we need as many volunteers as possible and if you’re willing to cover your road we’d love to hear from you,” Maj. Cox said.
For more information, or to volunteer for the Red Shield Appeal, call the Gawler Salvation Army on 8523 4844 or visit www.salvationarmy.org.au/get-involved/redshield-appeal/.