This Christmas, the Salvation Army is encouraging Armidale locals to connect with their community – whether through participating in Christmas activities, giving a hand up to someone in need, or reaching out to the Salvos for help.
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Christmas is one of the hardest times of year for Australians doing it tough, but Armidale Salvation Army officer Peter Spindler says just a small contribution can make a big difference in helping give hope where it’s needed most.
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“For just $29, you can provide food on the table, and a present under the Christmas tree to help give hope to someone in need this Christmas,” Major Spindler said.
Salvation Army research revealed that 95 per cent of all households who access the Salvos emergency services live in poverty; 74 per cent experience food insecurity; and 67 per cent report that affording food is their greatest daily challenge.
“At Christmas,” Major Spindler said, “the Salvos will serve over 100,000 meals, distribute more than 500,000 gifts and toys, and support more than 70,000 families in need. But we can only do this with the support of the Australian public.”
Christmas is the busiest time of year for the Salvos. They are running their annual Christmas Cheer operation, to provide toys and food for those in need; and also putting on a special Christmas Day service.
On Christmas Day, The Salvation Army is inviting the public to gather to celebrate the hope and joy of Christmas. The Christmas Day service will be held at 9 am at the Salvation Army Store, 102 Beardy Street, Armidale, and everyone is welcome to attend.
“Whether you are by yourself, or with friends and family, Christmas is a time that is best spent together,” Major Spindler said. “So join us, so we can share the true spirit of Christmas.”
If you require assistance at Christmas with food and gifts, please call (02) 6722 1184.
To give hope where it’s needed most this Christmas, please donate to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal at salvos.org.au/Christmas, or by calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58).
Donations can also be made in person at any Westpac branch or at Salvo Stores.
For more information about what The Salvation Army is doing at Christmas across the country, go to salvos.org.au
Please share your photos with the Salvos on social media using the hashtag #givehope