THE Salvation Army is calling on the community of New England north-west to dig deep this Christmas as the annual Christmas Appeal is launched, aimed at helping those who need support during the festive season.

The Christmas period can intensify financial and emotional pressures for those already experiencing disadvantage.

Salvation Army Moree program manager Jason Poutawa said the festive season was a time for giving.

“The Salvos in Moree will be working in partnership with other organisations to support families at this time,” Mr Poutawa said.

“This is not a hand-out, but a hand up and enabling people to take hold of their circumstances and make healthy choices for their households.

“We will be able to resource families we’ve worked alongside throughout the year to add value to their time at Christmas in ways that are practical and realistic.

“We appreciate the support of the community through financial donations to direct those funds to situations that are needed the most,” he said.

Salvation Army NSW external communication manager, Mark Campbell, said as high prices continue to put stress on local individuals and families, the Salvos’ goal of $29 million for their Christmas Appeal this year is vital to ensure people get the help they need this Christmas.

“For the Salvos, Christmas is the busiest time of the year, and this year will be no different,” Mr Campbell said.

“All year, we have been journeying alongside the New England north-west community, and we know Christmas will prove to be a real challenge for many people.

(from left) Moree Salvation Army’s Tennille Shearer, Jason Poutawa and Jakeob Lysaght.

“For some, the idea of celebrating Christmas may seem out of reach, as they can’t even work out where their next meal or utility bill will come from, both for themselves and their children.

“That’s why The Salvos are here – to support you when you need it most. Whether it is for practical support like food or presents, or if you are feeling lonely or isolated this Christmas, please reach out to The Salvation Army. We are here for you.”

There are many ways people can also partner with the Salvos to support communities this Christmas, including lending a hand through volunteering, donating products such as gifts and food, or offering a financial donation to the Christmas Appeal.

The Salvation Army also hosts a number of special community celebrations during the festive season.

For more information on how to support the Salvos this Christmas, or to find out about local events, please contact the nearest Salvation Army centre in the New England north-west area or visit Salvation Army.

During the Christmas period last year, thanks to the generosity of the Australian public, The Salvation Army nationally received more than 350,000 gifts and toys for families who might otherwise have gone without; provided more than 177,000 meals to those experiencing homelessness; and provided more than 89,000 bed nights for families in need of accommodation during the festive season.

The Salvation Army also encourages community members looking for affordable Christmas shopping options to consider Salvos Stores.

Whether gift-shopping or looking for Christmas decor, there’s always something unique to be found. Not only will shoppers save, but 100% of the profits raised support The Salvos community work across the country.

“The Salvos can’t support people this Christmas without the generosity of our local community, so we would love to see everyone dig deep this year in whatever capacity you are able to,” Mr Campbell said.

“That could look like donating to our Christmas Appeal, volunteering, or attending our local events.

“Reach out to us, and together we can be the hope that our community desperately needs this Christmas,” he said.

To find out about local Christmas event information, to donate to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal, or if support is needed from the Salvos, visit Salvation Army or call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58). Donations can also be made at any Salvos Store.