Partnership with Samaritan's Purse
The Salvation Army has joined the second stage of ‘Project Recovery’, a Samaritan’s Purse effort to provide ongoing assistance to farmers affected by the Victorian bushfires.
From left: Bushfire recovery manager David Barker, Graham Pearson,
Samaritan’s Purse spokesperson Marina Prior and Lieut-Colonel Ian Hamilton
Stage two is focused on replacing the estimated 8,000 kilometres of perimeter fencing lost during the fires. So far, the Army has equipped volunteers with more than $230,000 worth of tools, equipment and vehicles for the task.
The launch of the new partnership was held on July 24 at the Samaritan’s Purse Mitcham warehouse, where representatives from both parties spoke of the joy of teamwork for a just cause.
Southern Territory secretary for programme Lieut-Colonel Ian Hamilton was on hand as a spokesperson for the Salvos. ‘This partnership is a very special occasion because two organisations that God himself raised up are doing the work of the kingdom of God and are doing it together.
‘I don’t believe this donation should even be referred to as a gift from The Salvation Army. The truth is, we are God’s people uniting under God doing what God has called us to do—serve. We’re called by him, equipped and energised by his spirit, led by him to serve people in this world. This money is nothing more than a resource that God has provided,’ he said.
Graham Pearson of Samaritan’s Purse thanked the Salvos and spoke of the great need for help in rural Victoria.
‘I couldn’t think of a better partnership than the one we celebrate and honour today,
the Samaritan’s Purse and The Salvation Army coming together to meet the great physical, emotional and spiritual need that has resulted from these devastating fires,’ he said.
Currently, nine trailers packed with tools are being used simultaneously across Bendigo, Gippsland, Marysville, Kinglake and adjoining communities.
