The 2020 Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal is shaping up as the most important in its 55 year history.
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As the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic continues to cripple the economy, the organisation is gearing up to provide hardship support at an unprecedented level.
That's why the Taree Salvation Army wants the Mid Coast community to dig deep and help those in need.
Major Sandy Hogg said funds raised in Taree during the appeal will stay in the Manning area.
"The last couple of years it has become even more local and it's become even more important for us to raise money in our area because we can actually use those funds in our area," Sandy said.
Social distancing restrictions have forced the cancellation of the annual door knock appeal.
Due to the pandemic, residents have been asked to donate via www.digitaldoorknock.salvationarmy.org.au.
You can opt to fund raise as part of a team or as an individual. A one-off donation will also suffice.
Major Hogg said the funds from the appeal are used especially at Christmas.
"Last Christmas we helped over 100 families with gift cards and toys to give them a good Christmas," Major Hogg said.
"This year we are still going to need those funds, we're still going to need to help those families and I think it could be even more demanding this year in light of the current climate with the economy.
"We need as many people on board with this as we can so please help us."
Keeping with the digital theme, Major Hogg urged the community to share the link to the appeal's website across social media platforms.
Funds raised from last year's Red Shield Appeal were also used during the 2019-20 bushfire crisis in the Mid Coast area.
Salvation Army volunteers were present at evacuation centres across the region.
"All those funds are raised by the Red Shield Appeal," Major Hogg said.
"I know families were helped with they lost their homes as well in our area with those Red Shield Appeal funds.
"The more that we raise, the more we can help people and bring hope where it's needed most."
Donations for the Red Shield Appeal can also be made at Woolworths stores and Westpac bank branches.
Funds raised this year will also support a range of social programs such as the supply of food parcels, counselling for people experiencing financial hardship and social disadvantage.
In the past few years, the Taree branch assisted with drought relief.
