The Red Shield Appeal has kicked off

It’s time again for the Red Shield Appeal ladies and gentlemen, get ready to give.

Also if you don’t feel like waiting for someone to come knocking, you can always give on their website.

Minister Joy Burch today kicked off the Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal in Canberra with a $10,000 donation on behalf of the ACT Government.

“Many people in Canberra and beyond owe a great deal to the Salvos for their great community work, and the Red Shield Appeal is one of their major annual fundraisers,” Ms Burch said.

“The Red Shield Appeal Doorknock weekend will be held on 25 and 26 May this year, and the funds you contribute can make a difference to people in need of our support.”

This year’s Canberra fundraising target is $245,000 and the charity is aiming to recruit 3,000 volunteers in the ACT with the hope of knocking on every door in the capital.

In 2012, over 1,350 volunteers managed to cover more than half of the Territory.

Ms Burch said the funds raised will support the Salvation Army’s social welfare programs including drug and alcohol rehabilitation, counselling services, and in finding food, clothing and accommodation for people in crisis situations.