Gunnedah’s Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal is looking to boost its fundraising efforts this year after delivering assistance to about 15 per cent of the local population in recent months.

The Red Shield’s digital doorknock is held each year in Gunnedah during May, raising funds for individuals and families in need within the local community.

After a huge 12-month period for the Salvos in Gunnedah, having assisted 1424 individuals and families in need or about 15 per cent of the population, the Salvos are stepping up their campaign with the Steps for Hope Challenge.

This year the Salvos are inviting the Gunnedah community to sign up for the Steps for Hope Challenge as part of the Red Shield Appeal.

The challenge will encourage people to walk a set number of steps during the month, such as 20,000 steps, while raising awareness and funds to help people experiencing financial and housing hardship in the community.

All money raised through Steps for Hope will be linked directly to the Red Shield Appeal’s Digital Doorknock for the Gunnedah Salvos and spent locally.

Red Shield committee chair Amber Donoghue said the aim is to help support the local fundraising effort with a fun, active element.

She said the challenge is designed for all abilities – from big group targets in local businesses and organisations, through to smaller goals for individuals – anyone looking to give back.

“You can nominate your target, whatever your level,” Ms Donoghue said.

Peter Hall from the Gunnedah Salvation Army said while assistance needs have always been there, “the need keeps growing” for local families.

“We’re seeing a lot more requiring assistance, especially for things like electricity bills, rent, food provision and around Christmas time,” he said.

“The money we raise can go to help people at Christmas time, supplying food hampers, and to help families generally with the cost-of-living pressures.

“The need has always been there but it keeps growing.”

Last Christmas alone, Gunnedah Salvos contributed $12,730 in financial assistance during Christmas and delivered more than 150 hampers to those struggling financially in the community.

Mr Hall encouraged staff in local businesses to participate in the challenge as a fun and healthy way to support local people doing it tough.

Ms Donoghue said small acts of kindness – whether that’s putting food on the table or help paying a bill – can make a big difference in people’s lives.

“It’s a small gesture in many ways but it can be life changing for families,” she said.

 

By the numbers:

Over the last 12 months, the Gunnedah Salvos’ assistance includes:

Assisting 1424 individuals and families in need – that’s 15 per cent of the population!

Providing 278 food hampers

Handing out more than 150 Christmas hampers

Contributing $12,730 in financial assistance during Christmas

Donating 175 school hats

Supplying flood and emergency assistance

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