RELEASE
The Salvation Army will launch its 2018 Red Shield Appeal in Sydney today, with the aim to raise $73 million across the country.
More than 600 business leaders will attend the launch at The Westin, with special guests including Woolworths CEO Brad Banducci, Scentre Group CEO Peter Allen and AGL CEO Andy Vesey.
Television presenter Sonia Kruger will serve as Master of Ceremonies.
NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian MP, will kick off the appeal by announcing the New South Wales Government will donate $200,000.
"I am very proud to support such an enduring legacy," Ms Berejiklian said.
"The Red Shield Appeal is a wonderful way for all of us to recognise the tireless and essential work The Salvation Army does right across NSW.
"The NSW Government is proud to collaborate with The Salvation Army and support the delivery of services to families in crisis, the homeless, the elderly, people living with disability and so many more."
The Salvation Army’s Communications and Fundraising Director, Leigh Cleave, says the Red Shield Appeal is the lifeblood of The Salvation Army.
"The Red Shield Appeal ensures that we can continue to keep our doors open, and support hundreds of thousands of Australians right across the country who are doing it tough," Mrs Cleave says.
The Red Shield Appeal Sydney business launch is one of the key events on The Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal calendar, culminating with the doorknock weekend on 26-27 May.
Mrs Cleave says the public’s support is needed now more than ever.
"Every day, the Salvos live, love and fight for the needs of our community," Mrs Cleave says.
"We can only do this because, year after year, Australians come together to give hope where it's needed most. So please donate or volunteer for this year’s appeal because no one should go it alone."
To volunteer for the Red Shield Appeal doorknock, register online at salvos.org/volunteer. Donations to the Red Shield Appeal can be made by calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58), online at salvos.org.au, in person at any Westpac branch or Salvos Store or by posting a cheque to PO Box 9888 in your capital city.
The Salvation Army Media Department – (02) 9466 3143 ---
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