News

The Salvation Army has launched a Disaster Appeal to support communities affected by the devastating bushfires across Australia.

The Disaster Appeal will position the Salvos to help beyond the current support of evacuees and emergency personnel and into the sustained effort required through recovery and rebuilding phases.

Salvation Army spokesperson Major Bruce Harmer said the Salvos have deployed relief teams to provide food and water, along with emotional and practical support, to emergency services personnel and displaced people as they arrive at evacuation centres.

The Salvation Army is already preparing for the recovery phase of this disaster,” Major Harmer said. “We know from experience many of those displaced by the fires are going to need us for many months or years ahead. We are committed to standing alongside these communities for as long as it takes to get them back on their feet.”

Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) teams are active in evacuation centres across NSW, Victoria and South Australia. In Western Australia and Queensland, SAES efforts have moved into the recovery phase.

“What is unfolding across Australia is unprecedented,” Major Harmer said. “So, we appeal to the Australian community for an unprecedented response to our disaster appeal. These communities are going to need unprecedented support and we’ll be there to support them for the long haul. Australians are well known for standing together in times of hardship. Now is such a time.”

“Having spoken to many displaced people, it’s very apparent how emotionally they are spent. Many have lost properties and are under the pressure of uncertainty for today, let alone tomorrow and the months ahead.”

To donate to The Salvation Army Disaster Appeal, click here, call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or donate at any Woolworths checkout.

During times of need The Salvation Army is inundated with public generosity, however, our teams on the front line are requesting cash donations only as they allow us to provide immediate assistance to the community.

For media enquiries, contact The Salvation Army Media Relations team on 02 9466 3143.