2 minute read
Preview
The Big Collection
Bex Turner introduces this year’s appeal and highlights the importance of the Army’s chaplaincy work
EACH year, Salvationists and friends of The Salvation Army donate generously to the Big Collection out of a commitment to their faith and mission to help people in need.
With the increase in the cost of living disproportionately affecting people on the fringes of society, the Army’s work is vital, supporting people who are experiencing homelessness, providing specialist support for adult survivors of modern slavery, caring for older people in residential care homes, and offering support to help people become job-ready.
William Booth strongly believed that people needed to be helped practically before they could be saved spiritually. He said: ‘You cannot warm the hearts of people with God’s love if they have empty stomachs and cold feet.’
In line with this, the Big Collection this year will help fund The Salvation Army’s chaplaincy work, supporting the practical and spiritual welfare of communities across the UK and Ireland Territory.
Salvation Army chaplains are working with the Social Work Trust to reach people living on the margins of society. They are present in Lifehouses, prisons, the military and more, helping to support people in difficult circumstances. They represent the Army to the public, who may not be aware of the Movement’s work and mission. They are out on the high streets, in shopping centres and at airports spreading their faith.
It is very easy to be overcome by the problems we face in the world today – but faith calls us to be a light in the darkness and overcome injustice with good. We are very excited about this year’s Big Collection and the opportunity it presents us to carry on the work of The Salvation Army, which has been transforming lives since 1884.
Getting involved is easy, with the appeal running all year round so you can get started when it best suits you – and there are so many ways you can get involved to show your support!
l For more information about the Big Collection, email fundraising@ salvationarmy.org.uk or call 020 7367 4800
BEX TURNER
Head of Community and Membership Fundraising THQ
GET INVOLVED
WHEN IS THE APPEAL?
The appeal runs throughout the year. If you would like to try door-to-door fundraising, special permits for representatives of The Salvation Army are already in place and these collections can take place in September. For more information, speak to your corps officer or local leader.
WHAT CAN I DO?
There are so many ways that you can fundraise! Bake sales, car boot sales, bouncy castle contests, races, fun runs, and lemonade stands are just a few ideas. Fundraising by taking on a challenge or setting up a social event is a great way to build a sense of community in your corps and beyond. Many corps arrange collecting days on high streets and in supermarkets. You can also set up an online JustGiving page for your corps and encourage your corps members to donate.
WHAT IF I CANNOT DONATE?
If you are unable to donate money yourself, please know that this is not the only way you can help! Sharing a link to your corps Big Collection JustGiving page on social media will make a massive difference.
RESOURCES TO HELP
We have plenty of resources that you can use for in-person fundraising:
l Appeal video l Donation envelopes l Posters, leaflets and more l Worship resources (coming soon)
Download these from
