The Salvation Army Bushfire Appeal reaches $4.8 million

The Salvation Army has thanked the Australian public and corporate sector for their generous support for The Salvation Army Bushfire Appeal, with $4.8 million raised so far to assist with the bushfire relief effort.

Salvation Army spokesperson, Major Jeff Winterburn, says due to the overwhelming generosity of Australians The Salvation Army has been able to move rapidly to assist individuals and families who have lost so much.

The Salvation Army has established its Relief Support Centre in Springwood and is already providing assistance to people in need.

“Initially individuals and families will have access to financial support to assist them with their immediate needs during this post-disaster period,” Major Winterburn said.

“The Salvation Army is now in the process of setting up longer-term assistance such as emotional and trauma counselling, financial counselling and legal advice and assistance.”

The Salvation Army would like to acknowledge and thank the corporate community for its generous support.

We'd like to thank our major supporters:

• Woolworths
• Target
• Westpac
• Western Australia Government

We'd also like to thank the following organisations for their generous support:

• ABC Tissue
• Tooheys
• Johnson & Johnson
• Baxter Healthcare
• Hutchinson Builders
• Beyond Bank
• Ritchies Group
• Ryde Council
• Bankstown Council
• West Ashfield Leagues Club

“Without the support of the corporate community, The Salvation Army could not provide the support which it does to people in need,” Major Winterburn said.

“Long after the fires are gone and the smoke has cleared, The Salvation Army will still be in these communities, standing side-by-side with those affected, to help them pick up the pieces and begin the long process of healing and rebuilding,” Major Winterburn said.

People can still donate to the Bushfire Appeal by calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58), online at salvos.org.au, or in person at any Woolworths store, Westpac Branch or Target outlet.

Woolworths are matching public donations dollar for dollar until 1st November.
 
For enquiries or media comment please contact:
The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory Media Office
T. 02 9266 9820 (phone attended after hours)

The media team is available to assist with setting up interviews or providing on the ground contacts and information.