$50,000 to launch Salvos’ Red Shield Appeal

The Queensland Government has urged business and the wider community to get behind the Salvation Army’s annual Red Shield Appeal.

This morning, Communities Minister Warren Pitt presented a $50,000 cheque to the Salvation Army to launch its 2007 Red Shield Appeal.

“The Salvos are out there every day and every night, working for and with their local community,” Mr Pitt said.

“They know where the gaps are and where help is needed most – yet more importantly, the Salvos know how to harness the resources to address issues locally.

“There is no doubt that the Salvation Army is there when people need assistance. Now it is our turn to support the Salvos so they can continue helping those in need.”

Mr Pitt said the Salvation Army assisted more than 1.5 million Australians a year – which worked out to be one person about every 20 seconds.

“In south-east Queensland alone, the Salvos spend about $20 million a year on social services, working with individuals, families, children, prisoners, the disenfranchised, the poor, the aged, and the ill,” he said.

“So any money donated to the Red Shield Appeal is not so much a gift, as an investment in the social capital of the state, and the community wellbeing of Queenslanders.”

“Therefore, I urge all Queenslanders to give generously to ensure the Salvos can continue to be there, when they are needed.”

Media Contact: Joe Begley 3235 4280 or 0408 701 379