Red Shield Appeal
What is the Red Shield Appeal?
The Red Shield Appeal is The Salvation Army's signature fundraising drive which helps fund our vast network of social and community services.
The Red Shield Appeal began in 1965 and is promoted under our most recognisable symbol – the red shield. Each year, The Salvation Army appeals to the Australian community for donations to ensure we can give hope where it is needed most through our social welfare and community service programs.
Vulnerable Australians rely on these programs every day. Our services range from providing shelter for the homeless, assisting families in crisis through practical support and financial counselling, to guiding people with addictions through to a clean, healthy lifestyle.
The appeal kicks off with offical launch events around the country where corporate and community leaders are invited to be our partners in mission.
When is the Red Shield Appeal?
The Red Shield Appeal is run over the months of April, May and June each year with the Red Shield Doorknock taking place on the last weekend in May.
In 2018, the Red Shield Doorknock will be 26-27 May.
How can I get involved?
You can set up a fundraiser in your workplace or join the Red Shield Doorknock with your family and friends.
Where do the funds go?
Red Shield Appeal funds help The Salvation Army deliver the following social services:
- Family welfare assistance
- Refuge for women and children in crisis
- Homeless shelters
- Youth drop-in centres and support programs
- Emergency and disaster relief
- Drug and alcohol rehabilitation
- Counselling
- Family tracing
- Bereaved by suicide support
- Disability programs
- Employment services and training programs
- Rural and outback chaplains
- Court and prison chaplains
- Chaplains to emergency service personnel
Who does the Red Shield Appeal help?
Using money raised through the Red Shield Appeal, in a typical week, across Australia, The Salvation Army provides*:
- 100,000 meals for the hungry
- 2000 beds for the homeless
- 5000 to 8000 food vouchers
- 1000 people with assistance in finding employment
- Refuge to 500 victims of abuse
- Assistance to 500 people addicted to drugs, alcohol or gambling
- Several thousand people with counselling
- 3000 elderly people with aged care services
- 4000 people in the court system with chaplaincy services
*approximate figures