FOR Ipswich mother Rebecca Lane, The Salvation Army made all the difference last Christmas.
After her husband lost his job, her family was struggling to make ends meet.
“We didn’t know how we were going to afford Christmas for the kids,” she said. “The Salvos gave us a food hamper and toys for our two little ones. It meant the world – we could actually sit down together and smile again.”
As the festive season approaches, The Salvation Army is calling on the Ipswich community to dig deep for its annual Christmas Appeal, with a national goal of $29 million to help families doing it tough.
Rising costs are putting pressure on households across the region, and the Salvos say demand for support continues to climb.
“For the Salvos, Christmas is the busiest time of the year, and this year will be no different,” said Rendle Williams, The Salvation Army’s External Communications Manager for Queensland.
“All year, we’ve been journeying alongside the South East Queensland community, and we know Christmas will be a real challenge for many people. For some, celebrating Christmas may seem out of reach when they can’t even work out where their next meal or utility bill will come from.”
Mr Williams said The Salvation Army was ready to help anyone who needs it – with food hampers, toys for children, or simply someone to talk to during what can be an isolating time.
“That’s why we’re here – to support you when you need it most,” he said. “Whether it’s practical help or emotional support, please reach out to us this Christmas. We are here for you.”
The Salvos are encouraging Ipswich residents to get involved by volunteering, donating gifts or food, or contributing financially to the Christmas Appeal. Special community celebrations will also be held across December to bring people together.
Last Christmas, thanks to the generosity of Australians, The Salvation Army provided more than 350,000 gifts and toys to families in need, served over 177,000 meals, and offered more than 89,000 bed nights for those without a place to stay.
For Ipswich families trying to stretch their budgets, Salvos Stores offer affordable Christmas shopping options, with all proceeds going directly towards community support programs.
“The Salvos can’t do this without the generosity of our local community,” Williams said. “Whether you can donate, volunteer, or attend one of our local events, every small act helps bring hope to someone who needs it this Christmas.”
To donate to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal, find local events, or seek support from your nearest Salvos centre in Ipswich, visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58). Donations can also be made at any Salvos Store.
