Salvos providing thousands of meals in Cyclone Alfred aftermath
The Salvation Army’s Cyclone Alfred Appeal aims to raise $5 million
In the aftermath of Cyclone Alfred making landfall over the weekend, The Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) have been deployed in evacuation centres across southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales to support those who have been devastated by this disaster.
As of Sunday 9 March, SAES teams are present in 11 evacuation centres across the region, and are on standby for dozens more, as The Salvation Army works closely with QLD and NSW State governments.
Across those centres, The Salvos have provided over 2,500 meals to evacuees and first responders, as well as other practical and emotional support as they stand alongside those experiencing this crisis.
“The Salvation Army’s teams have been working tirelessly in evacuation centres since this disaster struck, supporting people most in need at this time. What we hope to provide is more than just a meal, but a sense of hope, a calming presence, and someone who you can talk to. We are grateful for our Army of workers and volunteers who have mobilised into these regions to support,” said The Salvation Army’s Major Bruce Harmer.
The Salvation Army have also launched their Cyclone Alfred Appeal, aiming to raise $5 million to support the people of Queensland and New South Wales during this emergency response and into the future as they recover and rebuild. The Salvos are grateful to all Australians who have given to their Appeal, including generous gifts from their partners Woolworths and The NAB Foundation.
The Cyclone Alfred disaster is anticipated to have long term impacts, meaning The Salvation Army will employ its three phased approach to natural disaster response. This begins with the current Emergency Relief phase, which involves SAES teams and local Salvos providing meals and emotional support to those impacted by the disaster.
As the cyclone dissipates and the true nature of the devastation and loss becomes clear, The Salvation Army’s Recovery teams will move into the Early Recovery phase, providing grants and emotional care to those impacted by the disaster. This support continues into the Long-Term Recovery phase, as the Salvos partner with communities for as long as it takes for them to recover and get back on their feet.
“We are appealing once again to the Australian public for donations to our Cyclone Alfred Appeal, to ensure we can support those devastated by this disaster. It is during times of crisis that we see the Aussie spirit of generosity shine through, so please, if you are able, give to our Appeal in support of the thousands who will be affected by Cyclone Alfred,” says Major Harmer.
Anyone who is impacted by Cyclone Alfred and needs support is encouraged to monitor the QLD and NSW Government websites for weather warnings and evacuation updates.
To donate to The Salvation Army’s Cyclone Alfred Appeal, please visit salvationarmy.org.au. You can also donate in store and online at Woolworths.
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For more information, please contact The Salvation Army’s Media Relations Department on (02) 94663143