Supporting Australians impacted by disaster
Salvos delivering financial and food relief to Queenslanders impacted
As Australians deal with multiple severe weather events, The Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) teams are meeting the needs of evacuees and first responders in Queensland’s Far North and South East as flooding rains challenge communities.
In the aftermath of Cyclone Jasper in Far North Queensland and the devastating flooding in South East Queensland, The Salvation Army has been providing thousands of meals and refreshments to evacuees and first responders in evacuation centres across the state.
“Our teams have been working tirelessly during the last few months supporting those who have been devastated by these disasters, with many of our volunteers giving up their Christmas and New Year breaks to support. Our heart goes out to all who have been impacted, and we want them to know that The Salvation Army are here for you. Our teams will remain in communities to provide support in the weeks and months to come,” said Simon Gregory, The Salvation Army’s Public Relations Secretary for Queensland.
Salvos are still present in local communities across Queensland to provide early recovery support through Queensland Government recovery hubs, which assist with key information, referrals, personal support and guidance with accessing financial assistance.
“We know that the impact of a natural disaster can be long-lasting. The early and long term recovery phases of our disaster response - implemented during times of natural disaster - remain in place, often for years following the natural disaster itself. Our emergency services teams have been managing disaster relief for more than 50 years and we have a trusted history of working with governments and other agencies in supporting communities until they are back on their feet,” said Simon.
With bushfires, a cyclone and flooding rains hitting the state in recent months, the Queensland government contributed a leading gift of $600,000 to The Salvation Army for natural disaster support.
The Salvation Army has also released $536,000 from their Red Shield Appeal funds to support those who have been devastated by the flooding in Queensland, which will be distributed through the emergency response and recovery phases of the disaster. The Salvos have already distributed over $370,000 in financial assistance to people in flood-affected communities across Queensland.
“Time and time again, when times are tough, Australians rally together and help those who are doing it tough. Many have been devastated by the floods in Queensland, and The Salvation Army need your support so we can be present in communities for the long haul. If you can, please donate to The Salvation Army so we can support those who have been affected by these disasters,” said Simon.
For more information on how to get support through the Queensland recovery hubs, visit our disasters and emergencies page.
The Salvation Army has also been providing vital support in natural disasters across the country, including providing meals and refreshments to first responders following bushfires in Western Australia, and is currently working with local authorities in the Northern Rivers of NSW to monitor the current evolving floods, ready to assist when required.
If you would like to support the work of The Salvation Army in natural disasters, please consider donating.