Red Shield Appeal
So much is uncertain, but one thing we know: in the coming weeks and months, the Salvos will be needed by Australians like never before. As more people face hardship, isolation and the evils of domestic violence, we will give people the care they need.
That’s why this year’s Red Shield Appeal is more important than ever. Together, let’s leave no one in need.
Red Shield Appeal: Leave no one in need during COVID-19
COVID-19 is challenging all Australians in different ways, but it is especially hard for vulnerable people. The Salvation Army is bracing itself for ongoing increases in people seeking help for financial concerns, homelessness and domestic violence.
Find out more
Digital Doorknock with the Salvos
Our Red Shield Appeal will be looking different this year, and we will need your support more than ever. We are launching an exciting digital campaign that you can get involved with right now.
Get involved
Giving hope to those facing domestic violence
No one should have to choose between living with abuse or facing the possibility of homelessness, yet thousands of women and children in Australia are put in this impossible position every day.
Read moreOur Stories
When others need hope
The Red Shield Appeal gives hope to many who need it when the going gets tough.
Safety and stability for a family in crisis
Andrea was faced with a terrible choice – living with domestic violence or experiencing homelessness, until support from the Salvos provided her with safety and stability.
From military service to homelessness
Discharged from the military, Archie was stunned to find himself homeless. Being connected to a Salvos veteran support service was the first step in getting his life back on track.
Salvos Family & Domestic Violence Services
Salvos FDV program regenerates hope by providing support to women and families facing domestic violence.
Red Shield Appeal FAQ
The Red Shield Appeal is run over the months of April, May and June each year, with traditionally the national doorknock taking place on the last weekend in May.
This year, instead of doorknocking, the Red Shield Appeal will utilise online fundraising to ensure health guidelines and social distancing is observed.
The Red Shield Appeal is The Salvation Army's signature fundraising drive which helps fund our vast network of social and community services.
The Red Shield Appeal began in 1965 and is promoted under our most recognisable symbol – the red shield. Each year, The Salvation Army appeals to the Australian community for donations to ensure we can give hope where it is needed most through our social welfare and community service programs.
Vulnerable Australians rely on these programs every day. Our services range from providing shelter for the homeless, assisting families in crisis through practical support and financial counselling, to guiding people with addictions through to a clean, healthy lifestyle.
The appeal kicks off with official launch events around the country where corporate and community leaders are invited to be our partners in mission.
You can donate to the Red Shield Appeal, or you can become a digital doorknocker by asking your friends and colleagues to donate.
More information on how to become a digital doorknocker will be available soon.
Red Shield Appeal funds help The Salvation Army deliver the following social services:
- Family welfare assistance
- Refuge for women and children in crisis
- Homeless shelters
- Youth drop-in centres and support programs
- Emergency and disaster relief
- Drug and alcohol rehabilitation
- Disability programs
- Employment services and training programs
- Rural and outback chaplains
- Court and prison chaplains
- Chaplains to emergency service personnel
Using money raised through the Red Shield Appeal, across Australia, The Salvation Army provides*:
- Accommodation for over 2000 people per night
- Over 36,000 people assisted by homelessness services, by way of case management support
- Over 100,000 people assisted with hospitality, in-kind and personal assistance in disaster affected situations by Salvation Army Emergency Services
- Support to over 14,000 people by Financial Counsellors (Moneycare)
- Over 27,000 significant contacts made by Chaplains
- Support to over 3,000 by Aged Care services
*The Salvation Army Australia, Service and Mission Information System, July 2016 - June 2017