The Salvation Army is kicking off its Red Shield Appeal, which officially takes place this weekend, with the same mission to help those in the community that are struggling.

The annual charity drive will look to raise $1.9 million in donations across New South Wales through community collection, door knocking and online fundraising. 

This year marks the second time the Kiama and Jamberoo Appeal has been managed by new zone director Tracey Wicks, who took over from long-time director Graeme Packer, who retired in 2021 after 23 years of organising the local event.

Ms Wicks is a 24-year Salvation Army officer, and has seen first-hand how important these initiatives are for local services like domestic violence services.

“I’ve worked with the Salvation Army in social services, housing, domestic violence, etc. so I’ve seen where the funds actually go and how vital donations are for their survival,” she told The Bugle.

“In the Illawarra, we have services like crisis accommodation that don’t receive any government funding, so events like the Red Shield Appeal are a big part of how we’re able to fund these services.”

While the appeal officially takes place this weekend, Wicks said fundraising efforts will continue for some time after. As well as collecting donations at local markets across Kiama and Jamberoo, Minamurra Lions’ Club will also be involved in door-knocking.

The Salvation Army is accepting online donations for those that can’t participate in person. You can check out the Kiama Salvos donation page here.