Dawn's story
A fighting chance September 2017 salvos.org.au
Life-changing Food 4 Life
Provides a safe and fun environment to engage young people with disabilities
After 20 years living in community housing, Dawn and her husband used all their savings to buy a small run-down house for themselves and their adult son who suffers from schizophrenia.
“It’s good for me to get out. I feel I’m doing something useful and helpful.” centre for referrals, a faith community for those interested and in an area where many are highly isolated by age, mental health issues, poverty, language – simply a place to belong.”
Workplace Giving with The Salvation Army Simple and effective, Workplace Giving (WPG) allows employees to give small, regular donations to a charity of their choice through their pre-tax pay. Since the inception of their WPG program, AGL has been a proud supporter of the Salvos for over 10 years. For AGL employees, having their donations matched dollar-for-dollar by AGL is a huge incentive to sign up for Workplace Giving. “I find it rewarding to have my donations matched by AGL towards a worthwhile cause,” says James, one of AGL’s Salvation Army Workplace supporters. For AGL, it’s simple. Workplace Giving provides benefits for individuals, businesses, and charities alike.
On
the scene
It is a guaranteed income for charities, and allows employees to “give back” in an easy, tax-efficient way. Research also shows that employers who have WPG programs enjoy increased staff engagement, productivity, reputation, and social impact. Last year, The Salvation Army received over $630,000 in donations through Workplace Giving, with AGL and their employees contributing over $25,000!
To find out more about donating through Workplace Giving, please send an email to: workplacegiving@aue. salvationarmy.org
THE SALVATION ARMY AUSTRALIA EASTERN TERRITORY September 2017
3
CYCLONE
New Youthlink centre adds resources to transform young lives
recovery
“Many of the young people we support are experiencing chronic economic and social disadvantage, have left school usually before the end of Year 9, have multiple barriers to gaining employment and find it difficult to access traditional vocational training. So, providing them with ongoing support is essential.” – James Selby, Youthlink manager. The new Sargents Challenge Centre in Blacktown, Sydney, was developed by The Salvation Army’s Youthlink, predominantly to support schools in Greater Western Sydney. Its main aim is to provide a safe and fun environment to engage young people with disabilities, especially those young people with emotional and intellectual challenges. The course offers up to 13 different challenge activities and a covered pergola/training space. Since 2000, The Sargents Pies Charitable Foundation has been sponsoring Youthlink initiatives. The challenge is the latest addition to a wide range of Youthlink programs for young people, which already includes outdoor adventure, school re-engagement, vocational training, drug and alcohol awareness and support. More than 2,000 young people benefit from participating each year.
On
the scene
The bigger picture
Hope and light
According to Kerri-Ann Nattrass – representing Youthlink’s Reconnect program (bringing together young people with education, training or work) – a holistic approach is essential. “Our young people don’t operate in isolation, so we also support and work with families wherever possible and many also access multiple programs,” she says. Fifteen-year-old Angus* is just one of many that have benefited from Youthlink support. In a few short years Angus has dealt with a heartbreaking family breakup, major surgery to deal with serious medical problems, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, disengagement from school, and his mum’s cancer battle. Through Youthlink's multi-layered approach, Angus has been given the opportunity to make huge progress.
After Kerri-Ann noticed Angus’ passion for reptiles she approached a local wildlife park to allow Angus into a volunteer program one day a week. The team also organised transport to a new school, Christmas hampers when the family was buckling under medical costs, Salvos camp, food vouchers and more. Angus also recently gained his L-plates through the Salvos Drive for Life. His Mum, Sue*, says: “Angus especially loves (the volunteer work) and now wants a career in a zoo. It has put some light back into his eyes and I think hope back in his heart.” Kerri-Ann adds: “These kids are just lovely, lovely kids – they’ve just had rough circumstances or backgrounds and I’ve seen repeatedly that our programs do transform lives. Many just needed a fighting chance.” * Not their real names.
THE SALVATION ARMY AUSTRALIA EASTERN TERRITORY September 2017
6
After Cyclone Debbie
q page 2
Welcome page 2 Freedom Partners Design designmind.com.au © 2017 Ref 1556-TSA-OTSSEPT17-91web Printed September 2017
“It’s become a big part of my life,” she says. “It’s also good for me to get out (as a home carer). I feel I’m doing something useful and helpful,” she says. Dawn says her life has changed immeasurably since coming into contact with Food 4 Life and volunteering to help others in need. She has returned to her faith in Jesus through an associated church service and says the team has become her extended family. Manager Joel Spicer says: “The economic realities for many in this area – including aged pensioners – means that some may have to choose at times between things such as heating and eating. Hunger and food insecurity are sadly very real. “There are many struggling locally and as much as we offer healthy, very affordable food, we also seek to be a
Photos courtesy of David Swift
They worked hard to make the house a home, but not long after, Dawn lost her husband to cancer. Still caring for her son, and on a pension, Dawn was struggling to make ends meet when she read about The Salvation Army’s Miller (NSW) Food 4 Life in her local paper. With the support of our donors, The Salvation Army is able to run two Food 4 Life markets in Sydney. The service aims to help break the cycle of food insecurity, poverty and social isolation. People join and for $15 can fill a large bag with groceries, fresh fruit, vegetables and meat items (often worth more than $70). They can shop up to twice a week and it’s a good opportunity to meet and mix with others in the community. For Dawn, and many others, it makes all the difference to her weekly grocery budget. Soon, Dawn was not only shopping and visiting the service, but also became a dedicated volunteer.
page 4
Your community page 5 Youthlink centre page 6
WEB
salvos.org.au
facebook.com/TheSalvationArmyAustralia
twitter.com/salvos
Community story
Continuing to piece together communities
welcome
– Cyclone Debbie
Thank You!
As many of our supporters would know, Cyclone Debbie hit Queensland hard in late March.
Whether supporting and rebuilding communities devastated by natural disaster, fighting modern slavery, or helping highly disadvantaged young people re-engage with school or access training, your support continues to bring help, hope and transformation. The Salvation Army remains committed, wherever possible, to continue to work on long-term solutions as well as address immediate needs. I do hope you enjoy reading about just some of the many real lives impacted through your generosity and your determination to support the most vulnerable in our community. God Bless
The category-four tropical cyclone struck north of Proserpine, bringing with it galeforce winds and widespread flooding. As the storm slowly tracked south, properties and local industries such as farming and tourism were severely impacted. The trail of destruction covered a vast area between North Queensland and Northern NSW. Sadly, the storm, then flooding, also claimed 14 lives.
Frontline care The Salvation Army Emergency Services teams were immediately on the ground to help people struggling to cope and assist emergency relief workers. Teams of dedicated volunteers and staff worked tirelessly around the clock, providing more than 6,000 meals for essential services workers and evacuees. Salvos teams also helped rally people for local clean-up efforts and worked with other government and notfor-profit agencies to help those most affected, offering immediate emergency grants and processing applications for further assistance. The Salvation Army’s long-term rebuilding process is continuing, working alongside other organisations to provide affected residents with access to services offered by government and
Kelvin Pethybridge (Lt Colonel) The Salvation Army
13 SALVOS (13 72 58) salvos.org.au Cover Shot: Ruby Paynter, Lismore Floods 2017 Courtesy of Sophie Moeller
To date we've assisted 4,070 Cyclone Debbie affected households Total cost of assistance provided – $1,142,840
On
the scene
September 2017
Supporter story
non-government agencies. Kim Lee, Strategic Disaster Manager for The Salvation Army’s Australia Eastern Territory, says: “We are in this for the long haul. It’s a longterm process to help people rebuild their lives, and not just their homes.”
Emotional and economic toll Salvation Army officer, Major Bryce Davies, who worked as part of one relief team, says: “Debbie took almost 36 hours to completely pass. This was 36 hours of screaming wind, driving rain and intense electrical storms. “In the recovery centre, when we asked people where they were when the storm hit, 80 per cent of them started to cry. The emotional toll has been significant.” Major Davies says most people who came in requesting assistance were “grateful for some significant material help from our donors”. “One man that we spoke to and helped with donations has a business that depends on boat maintenance,” Major Davies says. “Eighty boats were lost during the storm in Shute Harbour, and more in Airlie Beach. His whole industry was basically destroyed.” Due to the overwhelming support from amazing donors, The Salvation Army’s Cyclone Debbie Appeal has raised over $1.3 million. Generous donations came from the Queensland Government ($250,000), Adani Australia ($200,000), Twin Towers Services Club ($50,000) and another $137,000 from donations at Woolworths stores.
2
Investing in long-term solutions Salvos Freedom Partners give a set amount monthly to support the ongoing work of The Salvation Army. The On the Scene team asked Nowra (NSW) based Freedom Partner Jo why she and husband Mark support the work of The Salvation Army. During breaks from work after the birth of each of her children, Jo, an engineer and musician, took on some part-time music teaching. She loved it and finally decided to return to university to qualify as a primary school teacher. Today she teaches a special needs class, in an area which contains large pockets of serious social disadvantage. While she and Mark (also an engineer) have supported the work of The Salvation Army for nearly 10 years, Jo says her teaching experiences helped ‘deepen their commitment’. They now give a set amount monthly to support The Salvation Army’s yearly budgeting and planning of programs and services. Jo says: “In some of the complex issues that families face, it’s often the kids that really suffer. For some families
it’s not just a matter of being given a bag of food and having their electricity bill paid, but also needing support to work on complex underlying issues. I think a lot about generational change in my work and believe even a small change in each generation can make a positive difference to the next. “We see The Salvation Army as the organisation that has been on the ground a long time; not just offering handouts, but also support in essential areas like employment; budgeting and drug and alcohol rehabilitation. “And importantly,” she says, “it does that in a positive way that helps build a sense of worth.”
The Salvation Army was the first charity in Australia to use the new 'paywave' system as part of a large scale national campaign. We set up 550 Donation Point Tap machines which helped us raise $55,000 towards the national total of $7.5 million. The top three fundraising areas were Ryde, Mosman and Chatswood, with Maitland and Orange the best performing regional areas. A big thank you to all who volunteered and donated!
Great ocean walk to end slavery
right: FREEDOM PARTNERS JO AND MARK.
13 dedicated supporters, along with Project Futures, completed a 44km trek along the beautiful Great Ocean Road in Victoria. They raised $38,391 to support The Salvation Army’s Trafficking and Slavery Safe House.
As Jane walked in the door of what she believed was basically an empty unit, with a brand new baby in her arms, she began to cry with wonder.
On
the scene
turned into a nightmare of violence and abuse and one night, although heavily pregnant, she seized the opportunity to escape with her daughter. They were taken into The Salvation Army’s Samaritan House women’s emergency accommodation, where staff supported them and then helped them to secure their unit. Thanks to the support of generous donors the weekly service is able to supply free food and household items to boarding house residents and locals in need (also run by volunteers from Dulwich Hill Salvation Army). They later continued to visit Jane regularly, as she struggled to sort out ongoing visa status issues. Jane says: “Christian doesn’t mean
Red Shield Appeal
Even a small change in each generation can make a positive difference to the next.
Wrapped in layers of love “Everything was already there,” she remembers. “My son’s cot, baby clothes, bedside table, bedding and everything for my daughter too. The lounge room – couch, dinner table, chairs. The kitchen (with) all the cupboards filled up.” It was the work of Sydney’s Dulwich Hill Salvation Army. The church family had embraced Jane and her daughter. They had listened to her story, shared her heartache, and were determined to put their faith into action. Jane and her daughter had arrived in Australia from Papua New Guinea mourning the death of her partner – her daughter’s father. Jane’s daughter was an Australian citizen, but Jane was not. She later re-married, but the romance
your community
you go to church every Sunday. You have to be kind and help one another every single day. And that’s what I saw in The Salvation Army.”
Coming up OCT 19-29
Sri Lanka Trek – Take part in the 'Trek for Hope' from Colombo to Kandy. By taking part you’ll support protecting victims of trafficking and modern slavery as well as victims of domestic violence salvos.org.au/srilanka DEC 1-24
Christmas Appeal – Donate, volunteer, collect food or toys for The Salvation Army's Christmas Appeal. salvos.org.au/christmas DEC 17
Carols in the Domain – Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney – come along to this free, family friendly event or tune in at home on Channel 7. carolsinthedomain.com SEP 8-18, 2018
Great Wall of China Trek – Walk the magnificent Great Wall over five days and discover the clash of modern and ancient Beijing with visits to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Register your interest at: salvos.org.au/china
To give monthly and become a Salvos Freedom Partner or pledge a Leadership Gift of $1,000 or more:
www.endslavery.salvos.org.au
02 9466 3180 www.salvos.org.au/partners
Kokoda trail for hope
Last year
2,500
women were helped by domestic violence services
THE SALVATION ARMY AUSTRALIA EASTERN TERRITORY September 2017
4
In April, 27 passionate trekkers made a difference by tackling the 96 kilometres of rugged mountain terrain and tropical rainforest of the Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea. These amazing supporters and their families not only trekked for 9 days but raised an astounding $160,000 for Salvos programs in addition to supporting The Salvation Army’s Hope House and HIV clinic in PNG with a $10,000 cheque. Well done Team Kokoda! www.everydayhero.com.au/event/salvos-kokoda2017
WEB
salvos.org.au
facebook.com/TheSalvationArmyAustralia
twitter.com/salvos
5
Dawn's story
A fighting chance September 2017 salvos.org.au
Life-changing Food 4 Life
Provides a safe and fun environment to engage young people with disabilities
After 20 years living in community housing, Dawn and her husband used all their savings to buy a small run-down house for themselves and their adult son who suffers from schizophrenia.
“It’s good for me to get out. I feel I’m doing something useful and helpful.” centre for referrals, a faith community for those interested and in an area where many are highly isolated by age, mental health issues, poverty, language – simply a place to belong.”
Workplace Giving with The Salvation Army Simple and effective, Workplace Giving (WPG) allows employees to give small, regular donations to a charity of their choice through their pre-tax pay. Since the inception of their WPG program, AGL has been a proud supporter of the Salvos for over 10 years. For AGL employees, having their donations matched dollar-for-dollar by AGL is a huge incentive to sign up for Workplace Giving. “I find it rewarding to have my donations matched by AGL towards a worthwhile cause,” says James, one of AGL’s Salvation Army Workplace supporters. For AGL, it’s simple. Workplace Giving provides benefits for individuals, businesses, and charities alike.
On
the scene
It is a guaranteed income for charities, and allows employees to “give back” in an easy, tax-efficient way. Research also shows that employers who have WPG programs enjoy increased staff engagement, productivity, reputation, and social impact. Last year, The Salvation Army received over $630,000 in donations through Workplace Giving, with AGL and their employees contributing over $25,000!
To find out more about donating through Workplace Giving, please send an email to: workplacegiving@aue. salvationarmy.org
THE SALVATION ARMY AUSTRALIA EASTERN TERRITORY September 2017
3
CYCLONE
New Youthlink centre adds resources to transform young lives
recovery
“Many of the young people we support are experiencing chronic economic and social disadvantage, have left school usually before the end of Year 9, have multiple barriers to gaining employment and find it difficult to access traditional vocational training. So, providing them with ongoing support is essential.” – James Selby, Youthlink manager. The new Sargents Challenge Centre in Blacktown, Sydney, was developed by The Salvation Army’s Youthlink, predominantly to support schools in Greater Western Sydney. Its main aim is to provide a safe and fun environment to engage young people with disabilities, especially those young people with emotional and intellectual challenges. The course offers up to 13 different challenge activities and a covered pergola/training space. Since 2000, The Sargents Pies Charitable Foundation has been sponsoring Youthlink initiatives. The challenge is the latest addition to a wide range of Youthlink programs for young people, which already includes outdoor adventure, school re-engagement, vocational training, drug and alcohol awareness and support. More than 2,000 young people benefit from participating each year.
On
the scene
The bigger picture
Hope and light
According to Kerri-Ann Nattrass – representing Youthlink’s Reconnect program (bringing together young people with education, training or work) – a holistic approach is essential. “Our young people don’t operate in isolation, so we also support and work with families wherever possible and many also access multiple programs,” she says. Fifteen-year-old Angus* is just one of many that have benefited from Youthlink support. In a few short years Angus has dealt with a heartbreaking family breakup, major surgery to deal with serious medical problems, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, disengagement from school, and his mum’s cancer battle. Through Youthlink's multi-layered approach, Angus has been given the opportunity to make huge progress.
After Kerri-Ann noticed Angus’ passion for reptiles she approached a local wildlife park to allow Angus into a volunteer program one day a week. The team also organised transport to a new school, Christmas hampers when the family was buckling under medical costs, Salvos camp, food vouchers and more. Angus also recently gained his L-plates through the Salvos Drive for Life. His Mum, Sue*, says: “Angus especially loves (the volunteer work) and now wants a career in a zoo. It has put some light back into his eyes and I think hope back in his heart.” Kerri-Ann adds: “These kids are just lovely, lovely kids – they’ve just had rough circumstances or backgrounds and I’ve seen repeatedly that our programs do transform lives. Many just needed a fighting chance.” * Not their real names.
THE SALVATION ARMY AUSTRALIA EASTERN TERRITORY September 2017
6
After Cyclone Debbie
q page 2
Welcome page 2 Freedom Partners Design designmind.com.au © 2017 Ref 1556-TSA-OTSSEPT17-91web Printed September 2017
“It’s become a big part of my life,” she says. “It’s also good for me to get out (as a home carer). I feel I’m doing something useful and helpful,” she says. Dawn says her life has changed immeasurably since coming into contact with Food 4 Life and volunteering to help others in need. She has returned to her faith in Jesus through an associated church service and says the team has become her extended family. Manager Joel Spicer says: “The economic realities for many in this area – including aged pensioners – means that some may have to choose at times between things such as heating and eating. Hunger and food insecurity are sadly very real. “There are many struggling locally and as much as we offer healthy, very affordable food, we also seek to be a
Photos courtesy of David Swift
They worked hard to make the house a home, but not long after, Dawn lost her husband to cancer. Still caring for her son, and on a pension, Dawn was struggling to make ends meet when she read about The Salvation Army’s Miller (NSW) Food 4 Life in her local paper. With the support of our donors, The Salvation Army is able to run two Food 4 Life markets in Sydney. The service aims to help break the cycle of food insecurity, poverty and social isolation. People join and for $15 can fill a large bag with groceries, fresh fruit, vegetables and meat items (often worth more than $70). They can shop up to twice a week and it’s a good opportunity to meet and mix with others in the community. For Dawn, and many others, it makes all the difference to her weekly grocery budget. Soon, Dawn was not only shopping and visiting the service, but also became a dedicated volunteer.
page 4
Your community page 5 Youthlink centre page 6
WEB
salvos.org.au
facebook.com/TheSalvationArmyAustralia
twitter.com/salvos
Community story
Continuing to piece together communities
welcome
– Cyclone Debbie
Thank You!
As many of our supporters would know, Cyclone Debbie hit Queensland hard in late March.
Whether supporting and rebuilding communities devastated by natural disaster, fighting modern slavery, or helping highly disadvantaged young people re-engage with school or access training, your support continues to bring help, hope and transformation. The Salvation Army remains committed, wherever possible, to continue to work on long-term solutions as well as address immediate needs. I do hope you enjoy reading about just some of the many real lives impacted through your generosity and your determination to support the most vulnerable in our community. God Bless
The category-four tropical cyclone struck north of Proserpine, bringing with it galeforce winds and widespread flooding. As the storm slowly tracked south, properties and local industries such as farming and tourism were severely impacted. The trail of destruction covered a vast area between North Queensland and Northern NSW. Sadly, the storm, then flooding, also claimed 14 lives.
Frontline care The Salvation Army Emergency Services teams were immediately on the ground to help people struggling to cope and assist emergency relief workers. Teams of dedicated volunteers and staff worked tirelessly around the clock, providing more than 6,000 meals for essential services workers and evacuees. Salvos teams also helped rally people for local clean-up efforts and worked with other government and notfor-profit agencies to help those most affected, offering immediate emergency grants and processing applications for further assistance. The Salvation Army’s long-term rebuilding process is continuing, working alongside other organisations to provide affected residents with access to services offered by government and
Kelvin Pethybridge (Lt Colonel) The Salvation Army
13 SALVOS (13 72 58) salvos.org.au Cover Shot: Ruby Paynter, Lismore Floods 2017 Courtesy of Sophie Moeller
To date we've assisted 4,070 Cyclone Debbie affected households Total cost of assistance provided – $1,142,840
On
the scene
September 2017
Supporter story
non-government agencies. Kim Lee, Strategic Disaster Manager for The Salvation Army’s Australia Eastern Territory, says: “We are in this for the long haul. It’s a longterm process to help people rebuild their lives, and not just their homes.”
Emotional and economic toll Salvation Army officer, Major Bryce Davies, who worked as part of one relief team, says: “Debbie took almost 36 hours to completely pass. This was 36 hours of screaming wind, driving rain and intense electrical storms. “In the recovery centre, when we asked people where they were when the storm hit, 80 per cent of them started to cry. The emotional toll has been significant.” Major Davies says most people who came in requesting assistance were “grateful for some significant material help from our donors”. “One man that we spoke to and helped with donations has a business that depends on boat maintenance,” Major Davies says. “Eighty boats were lost during the storm in Shute Harbour, and more in Airlie Beach. His whole industry was basically destroyed.” Due to the overwhelming support from amazing donors, The Salvation Army’s Cyclone Debbie Appeal has raised over $1.3 million. Generous donations came from the Queensland Government ($250,000), Adani Australia ($200,000), Twin Towers Services Club ($50,000) and another $137,000 from donations at Woolworths stores.
2
Investing in long-term solutions Salvos Freedom Partners give a set amount monthly to support the ongoing work of The Salvation Army. The On the Scene team asked Nowra (NSW) based Freedom Partner Jo why she and husband Mark support the work of The Salvation Army. During breaks from work after the birth of each of her children, Jo, an engineer and musician, took on some part-time music teaching. She loved it and finally decided to return to university to qualify as a primary school teacher. Today she teaches a special needs class, in an area which contains large pockets of serious social disadvantage. While she and Mark (also an engineer) have supported the work of The Salvation Army for nearly 10 years, Jo says her teaching experiences helped ‘deepen their commitment’. They now give a set amount monthly to support The Salvation Army’s yearly budgeting and planning of programs and services. Jo says: “In some of the complex issues that families face, it’s often the kids that really suffer. For some families
it’s not just a matter of being given a bag of food and having their electricity bill paid, but also needing support to work on complex underlying issues. I think a lot about generational change in my work and believe even a small change in each generation can make a positive difference to the next. “We see The Salvation Army as the organisation that has been on the ground a long time; not just offering handouts, but also support in essential areas like employment; budgeting and drug and alcohol rehabilitation. “And importantly,” she says, “it does that in a positive way that helps build a sense of worth.”
The Salvation Army was the first charity in Australia to use the new 'paywave' system as part of a large scale national campaign. We set up 550 Donation Point Tap machines which helped us raise $55,000 towards the national total of $7.5 million. The top three fundraising areas were Ryde, Mosman and Chatswood, with Maitland and Orange the best performing regional areas. A big thank you to all who volunteered and donated!
Great ocean walk to end slavery
right: FREEDOM PARTNERS JO AND MARK.
13 dedicated supporters, along with Project Futures, completed a 44km trek along the beautiful Great Ocean Road in Victoria. They raised $38,391 to support The Salvation Army’s Trafficking and Slavery Safe House.
As Jane walked in the door of what she believed was basically an empty unit, with a brand new baby in her arms, she began to cry with wonder.
On
the scene
turned into a nightmare of violence and abuse and one night, although heavily pregnant, she seized the opportunity to escape with her daughter. They were taken into The Salvation Army’s Samaritan House women’s emergency accommodation, where staff supported them and then helped them to secure their unit. Thanks to the support of generous donors the weekly service is able to supply free food and household items to boarding house residents and locals in need (also run by volunteers from Dulwich Hill Salvation Army). They later continued to visit Jane regularly, as she struggled to sort out ongoing visa status issues. Jane says: “Christian doesn’t mean
Red Shield Appeal
Even a small change in each generation can make a positive difference to the next.
Wrapped in layers of love “Everything was already there,” she remembers. “My son’s cot, baby clothes, bedside table, bedding and everything for my daughter too. The lounge room – couch, dinner table, chairs. The kitchen (with) all the cupboards filled up.” It was the work of Sydney’s Dulwich Hill Salvation Army. The church family had embraced Jane and her daughter. They had listened to her story, shared her heartache, and were determined to put their faith into action. Jane and her daughter had arrived in Australia from Papua New Guinea mourning the death of her partner – her daughter’s father. Jane’s daughter was an Australian citizen, but Jane was not. She later re-married, but the romance
your community
you go to church every Sunday. You have to be kind and help one another every single day. And that’s what I saw in The Salvation Army.”
Coming up OCT 19-29
Sri Lanka Trek – Take part in the 'Trek for Hope' from Colombo to Kandy. By taking part you’ll support protecting victims of trafficking and modern slavery as well as victims of domestic violence salvos.org.au/srilanka DEC 1-24
Christmas Appeal – Donate, volunteer, collect food or toys for The Salvation Army's Christmas Appeal. salvos.org.au/christmas DEC 17
Carols in the Domain – Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney – come along to this free, family friendly event or tune in at home on Channel 7. carolsinthedomain.com SEP 8-18, 2018
Great Wall of China Trek – Walk the magnificent Great Wall over five days and discover the clash of modern and ancient Beijing with visits to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Register your interest at: salvos.org.au/china
To give monthly and become a Salvos Freedom Partner or pledge a Leadership Gift of $1,000 or more:
www.endslavery.salvos.org.au
02 9466 3180 www.salvos.org.au/partners
Kokoda trail for hope
Last year
2,500
women were helped by domestic violence services
THE SALVATION ARMY AUSTRALIA EASTERN TERRITORY September 2017
4
In April, 27 passionate trekkers made a difference by tackling the 96 kilometres of rugged mountain terrain and tropical rainforest of the Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea. These amazing supporters and their families not only trekked for 9 days but raised an astounding $160,000 for Salvos programs in addition to supporting The Salvation Army’s Hope House and HIV clinic in PNG with a $10,000 cheque. Well done Team Kokoda! www.everydayhero.com.au/event/salvos-kokoda2017
WEB
salvos.org.au
facebook.com/TheSalvationArmyAustralia
twitter.com/salvos
5
Community story
Continuing to piece together communities
welcome
– Cyclone Debbie
Thank You!
As many of our supporters would know, Cyclone Debbie hit Queensland hard in late March.
Whether supporting and rebuilding communities devastated by natural disaster, fighting modern slavery, or helping highly disadvantaged young people re-engage with school or access training, your support continues to bring help, hope and transformation. The Salvation Army remains committed, wherever possible, to continue to work on long-term solutions as well as address immediate needs. I do hope you enjoy reading about just some of the many real lives impacted through your generosity and your determination to support the most vulnerable in our community. God Bless
The category-four tropical cyclone struck north of Proserpine, bringing with it galeforce winds and widespread flooding. As the storm slowly tracked south, properties and local industries such as farming and tourism were severely impacted. The trail of destruction covered a vast area between North Queensland and Northern NSW. Sadly, the storm, then flooding, also claimed 14 lives.
Frontline care The Salvation Army Emergency Services teams were immediately on the ground to help people struggling to cope and assist emergency relief workers. Teams of dedicated volunteers and staff worked tirelessly around the clock, providing more than 6,000 meals for essential services workers and evacuees. Salvos teams also helped rally people for local clean-up efforts and worked with other government and notfor-profit agencies to help those most affected, offering immediate emergency grants and processing applications for further assistance. The Salvation Army’s long-term rebuilding process is continuing, working alongside other organisations to provide affected residents with access to services offered by government and
Kelvin Pethybridge (Lt Colonel) The Salvation Army
13 SALVOS (13 72 58) salvos.org.au Cover Shot: Ruby Paynter, Lismore Floods 2017 Courtesy of Sophie Moeller
To date we've assisted 4,070 Cyclone Debbie affected households Total cost of assistance provided – $1,142,840
On
the scene
September 2017
Supporter story
non-government agencies. Kim Lee, Strategic Disaster Manager for The Salvation Army’s Australia Eastern Territory, says: “We are in this for the long haul. It’s a longterm process to help people rebuild their lives, and not just their homes.”
Emotional and economic toll Salvation Army officer, Major Bryce Davies, who worked as part of one relief team, says: “Debbie took almost 36 hours to completely pass. This was 36 hours of screaming wind, driving rain and intense electrical storms. “In the recovery centre, when we asked people where they were when the storm hit, 80 per cent of them started to cry. The emotional toll has been significant.” Major Davies says most people who came in requesting assistance were “grateful for some significant material help from our donors”. “One man that we spoke to and helped with donations has a business that depends on boat maintenance,” Major Davies says. “Eighty boats were lost during the storm in Shute Harbour, and more in Airlie Beach. His whole industry was basically destroyed.” Due to the overwhelming support from amazing donors, The Salvation Army’s Cyclone Debbie Appeal has raised over $1.3 million. Generous donations came from the Queensland Government ($250,000), Adani Australia ($200,000), Twin Towers Services Club ($50,000) and another $137,000 from donations at Woolworths stores.
2
Investing in long-term solutions Salvos Freedom Partners give a set amount monthly to support the ongoing work of The Salvation Army. The On the Scene team asked Nowra (NSW) based Freedom Partner Jo why she and husband Mark support the work of The Salvation Army. During breaks from work after the birth of each of her children, Jo, an engineer and musician, took on some part-time music teaching. She loved it and finally decided to return to university to qualify as a primary school teacher. Today she teaches a special needs class, in an area which contains large pockets of serious social disadvantage. While she and Mark (also an engineer) have supported the work of The Salvation Army for nearly 10 years, Jo says her teaching experiences helped ‘deepen their commitment’. They now give a set amount monthly to support The Salvation Army’s yearly budgeting and planning of programs and services. Jo says: “In some of the complex issues that families face, it’s often the kids that really suffer. For some families
it’s not just a matter of being given a bag of food and having their electricity bill paid, but also needing support to work on complex underlying issues. I think a lot about generational change in my work and believe even a small change in each generation can make a positive difference to the next. “We see The Salvation Army as the organisation that has been on the ground a long time; not just offering handouts, but also support in essential areas like employment; budgeting and drug and alcohol rehabilitation. “And importantly,” she says, “it does that in a positive way that helps build a sense of worth.”
The Salvation Army was the first charity in Australia to use the new 'paywave' system as part of a large scale national campaign. We set up 550 Donation Point Tap machines which helped us raise $55,000 towards the national total of $7.5 million. The top three fundraising areas were Ryde, Mosman and Chatswood, with Maitland and Orange the best performing regional areas. A big thank you to all who volunteered and donated!
Great ocean walk to end slavery
right: FREEDOM PARTNERS JO AND MARK.
13 dedicated supporters, along with Project Futures, completed a 44km trek along the beautiful Great Ocean Road in Victoria. They raised $38,391 to support The Salvation Army’s Trafficking and Slavery Safe House.
As Jane walked in the door of what she believed was basically an empty unit, with a brand new baby in her arms, she began to cry with wonder.
On
the scene
turned into a nightmare of violence and abuse and one night, although heavily pregnant, she seized the opportunity to escape with her daughter. They were taken into The Salvation Army’s Samaritan House women’s emergency accommodation, where staff supported them and then helped them to secure their unit. Thanks to the support of generous donors the weekly service is able to supply free food and household items to boarding house residents and locals in need (also run by volunteers from Dulwich Hill Salvation Army). They later continued to visit Jane regularly, as she struggled to sort out ongoing visa status issues. Jane says: “Christian doesn’t mean
Red Shield Appeal
Even a small change in each generation can make a positive difference to the next.
Wrapped in layers of love “Everything was already there,” she remembers. “My son’s cot, baby clothes, bedside table, bedding and everything for my daughter too. The lounge room – couch, dinner table, chairs. The kitchen (with) all the cupboards filled up.” It was the work of Sydney’s Dulwich Hill Salvation Army. The church family had embraced Jane and her daughter. They had listened to her story, shared her heartache, and were determined to put their faith into action. Jane and her daughter had arrived in Australia from Papua New Guinea mourning the death of her partner – her daughter’s father. Jane’s daughter was an Australian citizen, but Jane was not. She later re-married, but the romance
your community
you go to church every Sunday. You have to be kind and help one another every single day. And that’s what I saw in The Salvation Army.”
Coming up OCT 19-29
Sri Lanka Trek – Take part in the 'Trek for Hope' from Colombo to Kandy. By taking part you’ll support protecting victims of trafficking and modern slavery as well as victims of domestic violence salvos.org.au/srilanka DEC 1-24
Christmas Appeal – Donate, volunteer, collect food or toys for The Salvation Army's Christmas Appeal. salvos.org.au/christmas DEC 17
Carols in the Domain – Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney – come along to this free, family friendly event or tune in at home on Channel 7. carolsinthedomain.com SEP 8-18, 2018
Great Wall of China Trek – Walk the magnificent Great Wall over five days and discover the clash of modern and ancient Beijing with visits to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Register your interest at: salvos.org.au/china
To give monthly and become a Salvos Freedom Partner or pledge a Leadership Gift of $1,000 or more: 02 9466 3180 www.salvos.org.au/partners
www.endslavery.salvos.org.au
Kokoda trail for hope
Last year
2,500
women were helped by domestic violence services
THE SALVATION ARMY AUSTRALIA EASTERN TERRITORY September 2017
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In April, 27 passionate trekkers made a difference by tackling the 96 kilometres of rugged mountain terrain and tropical rainforest of the Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea. These amazing supporters and their families not only trekked for 9 days but raised an astounding $160,000 for Salvos programs in addition to supporting The Salvation Army’s Hope House and HIV clinic in PNG with a $10,000 cheque. Well done Team Kokoda! Join us for our next Kokoda trek in 2019
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Dawn's story
A fighting chance September 2017 salvos.org.au
Life-changing Food 4 Life
Provides a safe and fun environment to engage young people with disabilities
After 20 years living in community housing, Dawn and her husband used all their savings to buy a small run-down house for themselves and their adult son who suffers from schizophrenia.
“It’s good for me to get out. I feel I’m doing something useful and helpful.” centre for referrals, a faith community for those interested and in an area where many are highly isolated by age, mental health issues, poverty, language – simply a place to belong.”
Workplace Giving with The Salvation Army Simple and effective, Workplace Giving (WPG) allows employees to give small, regular donations to a charity of their choice through their pre-tax pay. Since the inception of their WPG program, AGL has been a proud supporter of the Salvos for over 10 years. For AGL employees, having their donations matched dollar-for-dollar by AGL is a huge incentive to sign up for Workplace Giving. “I find it rewarding to have my donations matched by AGL towards a worthwhile cause,” says James, one of AGL’s Salvation Army Workplace supporters. For AGL, it’s simple. Workplace Giving provides benefits for individuals, businesses, and charities alike.
On
the scene
It is a guaranteed income for charities, and allows employees to “give back” in an easy, tax-efficient way. Research also shows that employers who have WPG programs enjoy increased staff engagement, productivity, reputation, and social impact. Last year, The Salvation Army received over $630,000 in donations through Workplace Giving, with AGL and their employees contributing over $25,000!
To find out more about donating through Workplace Giving, please send an email to: workplacegiving@aue. salvationarmy.org
THE SALVATION ARMY AUSTRALIA EASTERN TERRITORY September 2017
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CYCLONE
New Youthlink centre adds resources to transform young lives
recovery
“Many of the young people we support are experiencing chronic economic and social disadvantage, have left school usually before the end of Year 9, have multiple barriers to gaining employment and find it difficult to access traditional vocational training. So, providing them with ongoing support is essential.” – James Selby, Youthlink manager. The new Sargents Challenge Centre in Blacktown, Sydney, was developed by The Salvation Army’s Youthlink, predominantly to support schools in Greater Western Sydney. Its main aim is to provide a safe and fun environment to engage young people with disabilities, especially those young people with emotional and intellectual challenges. The course offers up to 13 different challenge activities and a covered pergola/training space. Since 2000, The Sargents Pies Charitable Foundation has been sponsoring Youthlink initiatives. The challenge is the latest addition to a wide range of Youthlink programs for young people, which already includes outdoor adventure, school re-engagement, vocational training, drug and alcohol awareness and support. More than 2,000 young people benefit from participating each year.
On
the scene
The bigger picture
Hope and light
According to Kerri-Ann Nattrass – representing Youthlink’s Reconnect program (bringing together young people with education, training or work) – a holistic approach is essential. “Our young people don’t operate in isolation, so we also support and work with families wherever possible and many also access multiple programs,” she says. Fifteen-year-old Angus* is just one of many that have benefited from Youthlink support. In a few short years Angus has dealt with a heartbreaking family breakup, major surgery to deal with serious medical problems, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, disengagement from school, and his mum’s cancer battle. Through Youthlink's multi-layered approach, Angus has been given the opportunity to make huge progress.
After Kerri-Ann noticed Angus’ passion for reptiles she approached a local wildlife park to allow Angus into a volunteer program one day a week. The team also organised transport to a new school, Christmas hampers when the family was buckling under medical costs, Salvos camp, food vouchers and more. Angus also recently gained his L-plates through the Salvos Drive for Life. His Mum, Sue*, says: “Angus especially loves (the volunteer work) and now wants a career in a zoo. It has put some light back into his eyes and I think hope back in his heart.” Kerri-Ann adds: “These kids are just lovely, lovely kids – they’ve just had rough circumstances or backgrounds and I’ve seen repeatedly that our programs do transform lives. Many just needed a fighting chance.” * Not their real names.
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After Cyclone Debbie
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Welcome page 2 Freedom Partners Design designmind.com.au © 2017 Ref 1556-TSA-OTSSEPT17-91web Printed September 2017
“It’s become a big part of my life,” she says. “It’s also good for me to get out (as a home carer). I feel I’m doing something useful and helpful,” she says. Dawn says her life has changed immeasurably since coming into contact with Food 4 Life and volunteering to help others in need. She has returned to her faith in Jesus through an associated church service and says the team has become her extended family. Manager Joel Spicer says: “The economic realities for many in this area – including aged pensioners – means that some may have to choose at times between things such as heating and eating. Hunger and food insecurity are sadly very real. “There are many struggling locally and as much as we offer healthy, very affordable food, we also seek to be a
Photos courtesy of David Swift
They worked hard to make the house a home, but not long after, Dawn lost her husband to cancer. Still caring for her son, and on a pension, Dawn was struggling to make ends meet when she read about The Salvation Army’s Miller (NSW) Food 4 Life in her local paper. With the support of our donors, The Salvation Army is able to run two Food 4 Life markets in Sydney. The service aims to help break the cycle of food insecurity, poverty and social isolation. People join and for $15 can fill a large bag with groceries, fresh fruit, vegetables and meat items (often worth more than $70). They can shop up to twice a week and it’s a good opportunity to meet and mix with others in the community. For Dawn, and many others, it makes all the difference to her weekly grocery budget. Soon, Dawn was not only shopping and visiting the service, but also became a dedicated volunteer.
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Your community page 5 Youthlink centre page 6
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