The change is in response to the public health and social distancing requirements of the fight against COVID-19, where Australians are facing an economic and social crisis that has not been seen in decades.
The Salvos Red Shield Appeal Digital Doorknock aims to raise $8 million. The money raised from the Digital Doorknock will stay in Seymour and district to support the work of the Salvos.
Seymour Salvation Army's Captain Heather Stamp said the need for help was increasing daily in Seymour and district.
“The COVID-19 crisis has financially crippled many Australians and it will take months to see the real impact it will have,” she said.
“Our community meals was serving 60 to 70 people before the pandemic but that has since increased to more than 100 people.
“The money raised from the Red Shield Appeal Digital Doorknock will stay in local communities and help fund local initiatives.
“The past 12 months has been a huge year for Australians. With some of the biggest natural disasters in our history and now with COVID-19, more Australians are turning to the Salvos for vital support.”
In a typical year, the Salvos provide more than one million sessions of care to Australians in need, distribute more than 500 000 meals/refreshments to those devastated by disasters, help 46 000 people experiencing homelessness, see more than 65 000 people for financial counselling and give care to 13 000 people experiencing family violence.
Seymour Salvation Army's Captain Michelle Myles said The Salvos Red Shield Appeal Digital Doorknock needed 10 000 volunteers across Australia to sign up and help raise vital funds for those doing it tough.
“The Salvos are going digital this year and its easier than ever to volunteer your time and help raise money for those in need,” she said.
“We are asking our local community to partner with us to provide the critical care needed as we face these challenging times.
“We know when the chips are down, Aussies come together and do what they can to give hope. This is no more important than now.”
To volunteer for this year’s Red Shield Appeal Digital Doorknock, visit digitaldoorknock.salvationarmy.org.au
You can donate to the Red Shield Appeal by visiting salvationarmy.org.au or by calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58).
