Salvos launch Cyclone Alfred Appeal
The Salvation Army is launching an appeal today to support those who will be severely impacted by Cyclone Alfred, which is expected to hit South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales later today or early tomorrow morning.
The Cyclone Alfred Appeal seeks to raise $5 million to provide direct support for the estimated hundreds of thousands of people likely to be affected.
The Salvation Army is immediately releasing $600,000 from Red Shield Appeal funds, along with an additional $400,000 already pledged by Woolworths and the NAB Foundation.
“As we prepare for the potential impact of Cyclone Alfred in the coming days, I want to acknowledge the significant effect this event is already having on our communities,” said Chief Secretary Colonel Winsome Merrett.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected, and I am deeply grateful for the unwavering dedication and compassion our teams continue to show during this challenging time.”
The Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) have teams stationed at nine evacuation centres across South East Queensland and Northern NSW, offering meals and additional support. More SAES teams are on standby, prepared to be deployed to provide emergency relief at evacuation centres throughout the region, collaborating closely with the Queensland and NSW state governments.
“Our teams will be offering hearty meals, refreshments, psychological first aid and pastoral care to first responders and residents displaced by the cyclone,” Winsome said.
“Local corps officers and personnel are also actively engaged, bolstering our emergency response efforts. Furthermore, our local Salvos, deeply integrated within the communities they serve, are standing alongside those affected, providing practical assistance and reassurance as they navigate this difficult time.”
The aftermath of Cyclone Alfred is anticipated to have lasting effects, which means The Salvation Army will adopt its three-phased approach to responding to natural disasters.
This starts with the Emergency Relief phase, where SAES teams and local Salvos provide meals and emotional support to those affected.
As the cyclone dissipates and the true extent of the devastation and loss becomes clear, The Salvation Army’s Recovery teams will transition into the Early Recovery phase, providing grants and emotional support to those in need.
This assistance extends into the Long-Term Recovery phase, as the Salvos work alongside communities until they rebuild and regain their footing.
To donate to The Salvation Army’s Cyclone Alfred Appeal, click here. You can also donate at Woolworths, both in-store and online.
