THE Salvation Army is encouraging Port Macquarie residents to take time to connect this Christmas – with loved ones, with the community, and with the Salvation Army.
“Christmas can be such a busy time that we often let its true meaning pass by,” Major Brett Gallagher said. “We’re asking people to stop and take time to breathe this Christmas season.
“Everyone is welcome to join with us at Christmas time and every Christmas, the Salvation Army in Port Macquarie connects with many individuals and families on a range of levels.
“At the Salvation Army we believe that no-one should have to go it alone and this Christmas we want to invite the local community to become part of something that’s bigger than ourselves.”
Here are just a few of the ways you can get involved:
* Come to the Christmas carol service at 7pm on 15 December at the Salvation Army 110 Lord Street, Port Macquarie.
* Help a local in need by giving to its Settlement City gift tree. (Please drop unwrapped gifts into Settlement City at the corner of Park and Bay streets).
* Join the army for the Christmas day service to be held at 9am at 110 Lord Street, Port Macquarie.
* Phone them if you are in in need of assistance over the Christmas period or if you wish to apply for Christmas hampers (deadline 13 December).
* Have a meal or a coffee with someone you know who might be alone over Christmas.
* If you know someone who might need support over the Christmas period, get them in touch with the Salvos (the Salvation Army offers 24-hour support line for people who may need someone to talk to. Port Macquarie residents can call the Salvo care line on 1300 363 622).
The Salvation Army helps over 300,000 people every year at Christmas time. To find out how you can connect with your local Salvation Army this Christmas, as a volunteer, supporter or a person in need of assistance, contact Major Brett Gallagher on 0466 655 098.