Salvation Army Emergency Services teams have currently been deployed in various evacuation centres across the state, including the one at Ipswich Showgrounds. The Salvos have likewise launched “Flood Appeal” with a $1 million contribution towards relief efforts in the areas ravaged by the floods.
The Salvation Army has activated its emergency services teams, working with the evacuation centres across Queensland and NSW to support first responders and evacuees with meals as well as providing them with emotional and practical support. Apart from Ipswich, they are also assisting evacuation sites in Nambour, Gympie (two evacuation sites), Caboolture, Dakabin, Chandler, Logan, Lismore and Tweed Heads.
“Salvation Army personnel are on the ground right now providing thousands of meals for those impacted by floods across the east coast of Australia. In addition to meals, our teams are offering emotional support, which is well received by those displaced from their homes,” Major Bruce Harmer, National Public Relations Secretary for The Salvation Army said.
So far, Salvos have provided over 12,000 meals to these areas, however, much is still needed to sustain the relief efforts and fund the recovery and rebuilding phase. Thus, the “Flood Appeal” was launched with the aim of raising $10 million that will go directly to the approximately 18,000 homes that are estimated to be impacted by the extreme weather event.
To kickstart the fundraising drive, the Salvation Army released $1 million from its Red Shield Appeal funds along with an appeal for public donations “to help ensure we can support those devastated by these floods get back on their feet.”
“We have seen in the past two years, through bushfires, floods, drought and COVID-19, the spirit of generosity shown in times of hardship. We are calling again on the Australians to help us be there for the incredible number of people displaced by the floods. Please, if you are able, give to “The Salvation Army’s 2022 Flood Appeal”, Major Harmer said.
After the initial emergency response, Salvos will remain in the communities for the long term for the recovery and rebuild phase. During this phase, teams of caseworkers will be mobilised to reach out to affected communities, providing grants, financial support and acute care.
Visit the Salvation Army website to donate to “The Salvation Army’s Flood Appeal”. You can also round up your purchase at any Woolworths checkout in NSW and QLD, donate at any register throughout the country, or round up your in-store purchases at any Myer retail outlet nationally.