The Salvation Army's signature fundraising drive is the major annual fundraiser, which keeps the programs and services running all year round. 

Salvation Army officer, captain Julie Howard said the funds raised in Katherine directly help people suffering in Katherine.

“The funds we raise are essential to keeping the services and programs, like the Hub drop in centre, going. 

“Our hub is at the stage now where we are seeing new faces every day. 

“We are providing food and comfort to about 75 people on a daily basis and making up to 100 meals a day. 

“Hardship does not discriminate. More and more people from all walks of life are turning to The Salvation Army for assistance. We need the public’s support now more than ever,” Ms Howard says.

The Salvation Army is calling on Katherine community groups, sporting clubs, workplaces, families and individuals to get involved in its annual Red Shield Appeal. 

Ms Howard said volunteers play a crucial role in providing a helping hand to some of the most vulnerable and marginalised people in the community.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of what we do. They are our largest workforce, which enables the continued success and improvement of our vital social programs. These programs include emergency housing for people in crisis, drug and alcohol rehabs, financial counselling services, as well as a host of social programs,” Captain Howard says.

Every donation to the Red Shield Appeal can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, captain Howard said. 

“Just $28 helps children at risk of homelessness participate in an after-school program, $60 provides a food hamper so that a struggling family doesn’t have to go hungry, and $79 provides one day of support for a family to find a home. Even a relatively small contribution can have an immeasurable impact on someone’s life.”

With the cold weather, Ms Howard said she is seeing more and more people counting on the drop in centre to provide warm clothes and blankets. 

So much so, the centre cannot keep up with demand. 

“We have about ten people a day coming through asking for warm gear,” she said. 

“Rough sleepers are sleeping in cold conditions and if they are from the Territory they are going to feel the elements more. 

“We need help from the community to help these people out,” Ms Howard said. 

The Salvation Army has a trusted history in helping Australians in need for over 135 years but Ms Howard says the Salvos cannot continue to meet this need without the public’s support.

“We cannot do this alone,” she says.

“We all have the opportunity to be beacons of hope for others and by partnering with the Salvos for just a few hours over the Red Shield Appeal weekend, you can give hope where it’s needed most.”

To volunteer for this year’s Red Shield Appeal weekend, please call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or register online at salvos.org.au.

And to donate warm blankets or clothes please visit the Katherine Doorways Hub at 22 Katherine Terrace, Katherine.