Salvos Red Shield Appeal Letter to the Editor

The Salvation Army

18^th May 2026

Salvos Red Shield Appeal Letter to the Editor

Across Australia, the sight of the Red Shield appearing outside local shops, and worn proudly by volunteers in their communities marks a special moment each year, a reminder that it’s time for Australians to come together to support those doing it tough.

On the weekend of May 30 and 31, The Salvation Army’s official Red Shield Appeal collection weekend will once again see thousands of volunteers take to streets, shopping centres and local communities across the country, raising vital funds for Australians in need.

This year, the need has never been more urgent.

New Salvation Army research has revealed the devastating impact the cost-of-living crisis is having on families across the nation. Parents and children are going without food, and alarmingly families are struggling to even afford to take their children to the doctor when needed.

Every day, The Salvation Army is supporting people facing homelessness, financial hardship, family and domestic violence, addiction, loneliness and crisis. Last year alone, through our network of more than 2,000 services across Australia, the Salvos provided assistance to one person every 17 seconds.

But none of this happens without the generosity of the Australian community.

The Red Shield Appeal is more than a fundraiser; it is communities helping communities. Whether it is dropping a few dollars into a collection bucket, tapping your card, volunteering your time, making an online donation or simply spreading the word, every contribution helps provide hope to someone who needs it most.

Importantly, funds raised locally stay local, directly supporting people and families in your own community who are struggling right now.

This year, The Salvation Army is aiming to raise $41 million nationally to continue delivering critical support services across the country. We know times are tough for many Australians, but if you are able to give, your support can make a life-changing difference.

So when you see a Salvos volunteer across the Red Shield Appeal weekend of May 30 and 31, please stop for a moment, say hello and support this important cause however you can.

Together, we can be the hope our communities desperately need right now.

To donate or volunteer for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal or if you need support from the Salvos, visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS. You can also donate at any Salvos Store.

Secretary for Communications, Lieutenant-Colonel Paul Hately

ENDS

For more information, please contact The Salvation Army’s Media Relations Department on (02) 9466314