Media Release
The Salvation Army Goodna Christmas Community Celebration Brings Hope and Joy to Hundreds
The Salvation Army Goodna is preparing to host its annual Christmas Community Celebration, a tradition that has brought festive cheer to the region for more than a decade. Over the past three years, the event has grown significantly to meet the increasing needs of local families, and this year it is expected to provide a Christmas meal for nearly 300 people.
The celebration welcomes families and individuals from the Goodna community who have received support from The Salvation Army throughout the year. Many face challenges such as financial hardship, housing insecurity, unemployment, and social isolation. This event offers more than a meal—it provides connection, joy, and hope during the Christmas season.
“The last few years have been incredibly tough for the hardest hit in our community, and for many that shows no sign of slowing down. With impacts of the rise in the cost of living, demand for services is growing and we need your help. At the Salvos we are privileged to support those in our area experiencing hardship, but we cannot do this without the ongoing and loyal support of the community,” said Goodna Salvation Army’s Ameet Londhe.
The event is support by generous contributions from the Ipswich City Council, personal donations and food donations from Second Bite, Goodna Woolworths and the Salvation Army’s Streetlevel Mission Brisbane.
During the Christmas period last year, thanks to the generosity of the Australian public, The Salvation Army nationally:
- received over 350,000 gifts and toys for families who might otherwise have gone without,
- provided over 177,000 meals to those experiencing homelessness,
- and provided more than 89,000 bed nights for families in need of accommodation during the festive season.
“The Salvos can’t support people this Christmas without the generosity of our local community, so we would love to see everyone dig deep this year in whatever capacity you are able to. That could look like donating to our Christmas Appeal, volunteering, or attending our local events. Reach out to us, and together we can be the hope that our community desperately needs this Christmas,” said Rendle Williams.
To donate or volunteer for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal or if you need support from the Salvos, visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS. You can also donate at any Salvos Store.
ENDS