The Salvation Army Drought Appeal
Throughout its history in Australia, The Salvation Army has been assisting drought stricken farmers across Australia. During recent years, these efforts have necessarily become particularly focused as drought conditions have worsened in many parts of this country.
Our efforts to support families and communities are varied. They include carting water, distributing food and household products, and providing financial support to ensure that power, phone, water, school and other expenses can be met.
The Salvation Army has recently met with the Victorian Farmers Federation, and government officials to develop a plan for on-going support.
With the Federal and state governments providing assistance for farms and businesses, The Salvation Army's focus is on the households and families in the drought affected areas.
Through the following measures, our goal is to support and strengthen the children, parents and individuals who are struggling to survive and help them make it through this difficult period:
Provision of drinking water
Many rural and farming households rely on rainwater tanks for drinking water. The Salvation Army will work with water cartage contractors to help provide drinking water for families where possible.
Relief provision
In conjunction with other agencies and organizations, The Salvation Army will assist with payment of household utilities, telephone bills, food and groceries.
To ensure children are engaged in the community and schools, The Salvation Army will also assist with payment of school fees, excursions, camps, books and uniforms.
Outreach
Families in farming communities are often proud of their ability to stand on their own two feet. Rather than seeking or accepting help, their response is typically, "there's plenty of people worse off than me." This can hide underlying anxieties, depression, helplessness and hopelessness.
The Salvation Army has a reputation for low-key, casual, friendly interaction with people who are struggling. By visiting rural families and reaching out to them and gaining their trust, The Salvation Army will provide a trusted listening ear to people, give assistance and refer them to professional support services where needed.
Community and Social Activities
With entire communities suffering under the drought, malaise and low morale often creeps into the social fabric. The Salvation Army wants to keep towns and families and children connected by initiating a variety of social activities wherever possible. Various options are being considered and discussed.
For these plans to succeed, we need the support of people in cities across Australia. The best way to help is through cash donations to our Drought Relief Appeal.
The communities in the affected areas have specifically asked us not to collect donations of food items or hampers. Because the farmers are strapped for money, the stores and businesses in local towns are also suffering. By sending cash donations, your money will be spent in local stores to help support the entire community.
 To donate please phone our credit card line on 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or click here to donate via our web site.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Major Brad Halse, Communications Director
The Salvation Army Australia Southern Territory
Phone: (03) 9895 6203
Mobile: 0417 537 950
Email: brad.halse@aus.salvationarmy.org
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