By XAVIER SMERDON
WYNDHAM residents are being asked to open their hearts next month when one of the most tireless charity groups holds their annual fundraiser.
The Salvation Army will be holding the Red Shield Appeal from 20 May to 26 May and volunteers will be knocking on resident’s doors on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May.
Captain of the Wyndham City Salvation Army, Lance Jeffrey, told Star his branch of loyal volunteers was hoping to raise $60,000 this year.
“The money raised will go towards supporting the Salvation Army’s social work, drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs, funding women’s refuges and homeless and crisis accommodation,” Mr Jeffrey said.
“Last year we had a great response from the Wyndham community and we raised $50,000. This time we’d like to improve on that.”
Matt Sutcliffe, who helps run the Salvos on the Move food van, said countless people had benefited from the project.
“Basically we are at the Werribee Train Station every Friday night from 6.30pm giving away free food and drinks,” Mr Sutcliffe said.
“This year we’ve really kicked it off again. We have about 50 people come every week. It’s really good to be able to help them.”
Mr Jeffrey said he hoped Wyndham residents would continue to embrace the Salvation Army.
“In the past we have experienced a lot of generosity from the community and we’d like to call upon their generosity again,” he said.
“People are doing it really tough and they need our help.”
For more information on the Red Shield Appeal visit www.salvos.org.au
