Red Shield Appeal launches in South Australia
BY ANTHONY CASTLE
The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal launched in South Australia over breakfast at the Adelaide Convention Centre on Wednesday 10 May. Allen Edwards, a local Kaurna man, gave a Welcome to Country.
“As a Christian movement we have been blessed to be part of the fabric of South Australia for more than 140 years,” shared Paul Hateley, Divisional Commander South Australia/Northern Territory. “Working on the frontline we see complex issues like homelessness, family domestic violence, financial stress and addiction. It is a tragic thought that someone might struggle alone. We cannot do all of this without you.” Frances Adamson, Governor of South Australia, spoke of the respect The Salvation Army’s work has earned. Sascha Detmold Cox, Director of The Detmold Group, shared her thoughts about the significant cost of living challenges that South Australians face.
Nat Cook, Minister for Social Services, highlighted the importance of providing shelter and support for vulnerable South Australians, presenting a donation of $25,000 from the State Government. Terry Jackson, representing sponsor Electel Resources, presented a donation of $30,000 to the appeal.
As guests enjoyed breakfast, Pulteney Grammar School student Oscar Bridges gave a vocal performance. The school has a long-standing relationship with The Salvation Army in Adelaide.
In his capacity as testimonial speaker, Allen Edwards, whose mother was a part of the Stolen Generation, shared about his life and the hardships they had faced. The harm and violence experienced in his childhood led to addiction, but after connecting with Salvation Army’s services, he was able to regain his health and reunite with his family.
“We had the privilege of being welcomed into Allen’s story,” shared Lieutenant Keryn Coombes. “Officers, staff and volunteers of The Salvation Army hear heartbreaking stories like this in the day-to-day. This can and does happen to children in our own neighbourhoods. Family domestic violence has been called the shadow pandemic, destroying lives, and is the largest cause of homelessness.”
Colonel Rodney Walters, Secretary for Communications thanked guests and supporters present, before closing in prayer.
“Wherever there is hardship or injustice, Salvos will live, love and fight, alongside others, to transform Australia one life at a time with the love of Jesus,” Rodney shared. “As Salvos, we walk with all people experiencing crisis and through your support, you walk alongside us.”
The Red Shield Appeal runs through the months of April, May and June.
