The Salvation Army is launching their annual Christmas Appeal for 2022 with the aim of raising $3.1 million in Queensland to ensure no one is left in need during the festive season.

Cairns Salvation Army is hoping to raise $32,000 to support the increase of people and families they predict to see over the Christmas period.

“Christmas is always the busiest time of the year for The Salvos – but add a turbulent year with drastic increases to the cost of living – and we’re expecting even more individuals and families will need support so that no one is left in need and no child goes without a gift on Christmas Day,” Major Ben Johnson, Cairns Corps, The Salvation Army, said.

To support those doing it tough, The Salvation Army is calling on the kindness, generosity and giving spirit of the Far North Queensland community to help make Christmas a joyful time for everyone.

“If you can afford to lend a hand or make a donation, you’ll be making a huge difference to those who are really struggling,” Major Johnson said.

“We are in need of toys, adult gifts, gift cards and non-perishable foods, which can be dropped off at 64 Hoare St, Manunda. If you’d like to volunteer, please contact our office on 07 4051 2454.”

Thanks to the generosity of the Queensland public, during last year’s Christmas season The Salvation Army nationally distributed:

• over 9,500 hampers and vouchers to those struggling to make ends meet,
• nearly 4,000 gifts and toys to families who might otherwise have gone without,
• over 19,500 meals,
• and provided more than 9,900 beds for over 1,500 families in need of accommodation.*

Cairns Salvos will be hosting a number of local events this year, including a lunch for those experiencing homelessness. We are also partners with the Combined Churches in Cairns to present our “Joy to the World” Carols at the Showgrounds on the 3 December and our Christmas Day Service at 9am. We will also be playing and singing carols in the streets and shopping centres throughout December.

“Leaving no one in need also means leaving no one lonely this Christmas. We would love to see you at any of our events, church services or community programs during the festive season.”

“For those needing food or gifts, or feeling down or lonely this Christmas, please reach out to us at Cairns Salvation Army by calling 07 4051 2454. For financial and emergency assistance, please reach out to our Doorways Community support service on 07 3001 6288 (9am-5pm Monday to Friday).”

“Most importantly, take time to remember what matters most at Christmas – connection, community, friends, family, and an opportunity for Salvation. Reach out to people, spend time with those you care about, and if Christmas is a hard or lonely time for you, remember that your local Salvos family is always just down the road.”

“From all of us at The Salvos, we wish you a peace and hope-filled Christmas,” Major Johnson said.

You can find all the Christmas event information at salvationarmy.org.au/events, or donate to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal at salvationarmy.org.au or by calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58).

Donations can also be made in person at our office, Kmart store, or round up your instore purchase at any Myer store.