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The Salvation Army launch their annual Christmas Appeal

The Salvation Army have launched their annual Christmas Appeal this week, aiming to raise $27 million to support the Australian community who are doing it tough during the festive season.

The launch coincides with new research by The Salvos, which found over 15.3 million Australians (72%) will be more mindful of their spending this Christmas compared to previous years, and over 4 in 10 (42%) will have their Christmas negatively impacted this year because of the cost of living.

Further, almost half of Australians (48%) will buy less presents for their children and loved ones, and an alarming 11.9 million people (56%) will spend less on food this Christmas.

The Salvation Army’s Major Bruce Harmer says these findings make the support of The Salvation Army vitally important this year.

“At The Salvos, we see first-hand how much people are really struggling, particularly as we head into a busy Christmas season,” he says.

“Our research has shown the full extent of what we are seeing; individuals and families are at breaking point, unsure how they will be able to afford Christmas.

The research also found that while only 9.3% of Australians will be reaching out to a charity for help this Christmas, over 55% of these people will be doing so for the first time. This comes on the back of 67% being negatively impacted by the cost of living this year and more than 35% having been affected by loneliness, anxiety, depression or stress.

Major Harmer adds, “Christmas is the busiest time of year for The Salvos. It is a time that allows us to support people in their time of need, not just practically but also emotionally. While Christmas can be a time of joy and connection, for some, it can be a time of increased loneliness and isolation. We don’t want anyone to suffer alone, no child to go without a present, and no person to go without a special meal this Christmas. If you are struggling this Christmas, please reach out to The Salvation Army. We are here to help.”

During the Christmas period last year, thanks to the generosity of the Australian public, The Salvation Army nationally:

• received over 330,000 gifts and toys for families who might otherwise have gone without,
• provided over 184,000 meals to those experiencing homelessness,
• and provided more than 92,000 bed nights for families in need of accommodation during the festive season.

“The Salvos can’t continue to do our work without the support of the Australian public. It is through the generosity of Aussies that we can support those doing it tough across Australia. So please, if you can, consider donating to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal,” says Major Harmer.