What’s happening?
The Salvation Army in Central Queensland is rallying locals to support its annual Red Shield Appeal, raising funds to help those doing it tough across the Gladstone region.
Why it matters
The cost of living continues to rise, pushing more residents into financial hardship. The Salvos are calling for community support to sustain their essential services that provide meals, no-interest loans, and food assistance for struggling families.
By the Numbers
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The Gladstone Salvos serve over 200 meals weekly, meeting urgent food needs in the community.
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Each week they distribute more than 100 food packages to families and individuals in crisis.
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On average, 150 people benefit from No-interest loans, helping locals manage essential expenses with dignity.
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Nationally, the Salvos assisted one person every 17 seconds last year through over 400 centres and 2,000 services.
Zoom In
Captain Chris Ford of the Gladstone Salvation Army said, “The last few years have been incredibly tough for the hardest hit in our community, and for many that shows no sign of slowing down. Government funding only goes so far but the need in our community puts pressure on our services. We cannot do this without the ongoing and loyal support of the community.”
Zoom Out
Across Australia, the Salvos provided 1.76 million sessions of care to over 250,000 people, delivered 1.1 million bed nights for those needing accommodation, and served 1.5 million meals through homelessness services. These efforts show the widespread impact of local donations.
Local Impact
Every dollar raised through the Gladstone Red Shield Appeal stays local, ensuring funds directly support residents experiencing hardship, hunger, or crisis in Central Queensland.
What to Look for Next
Locals can donate, volunteer, or seek assistance through salvationarmy.org.au or by calling 13 SALVOS. Donations are also accepted at any Salvos Store in the region.
