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18 May 2007

Westpac urges all Australians to support the Salvo's Red Shield Appeal

Westpac today encouraged all Australians to give generously to The Salvation Army's Red Shield Doorknock Appeal this weekend.

Westpac's Head of Community Involvement, Samantha Brown, said with one million Australians turning to the Salvos for help each year, the need to support the Red Shield Appeal has never been greater.

"Every day, the Salvos lend a helping hand to those in our community suffering from the effects of the drought, financial difficulty, addiction, homelessness and other difficulties," Ms Brown said.

"This weekend is a chance for all Australians to show their support for the wonderful work the Salvos do in our community, and we encourage everyone to give generously this weekend."

The Salvation Army has helped less-fortunate Australians since the 1880's, providing a wide range of community services including the 24-hour Salvos Care Line, crisis accommodation, youth outreach, and employment services.

In addition to the doorknock, the Red Shield Appeal includes a business appeal and direct mail campaign, and has an overall national target of $64 million.

Hundreds of Westpac employees from across Australia have volunteered to collect donations for the appeal. In addition, more than 130 Westpac branches will assist with counting and banking funds generated by the weekend doorknock. Westpac's partnership with The Salvation Army spans 125 years.

Major Neil Dickson, The Salvation Army's Territorial Appeals Director, said all Australians are encouraged to give generously.

"The Salvation Army needs to reach a national doorknock goal of $8 million if we are to maintain services in the year ahead.

"With the support of a fantastic team of volunteers, we hope to ensure all Australians have the opportunity to give to the Red Shield Appeal this weekend."

Donations can also be made at any Westpac branch, by phone on 13SALVOS (13 72 58) or online.