The Salvation Army distributes more than $1 million in first three days

The Salvation Army is continuing to play a major role in helping those communities devastated by the Victorian bushfires. In the first three days since the bushfires started the Salvos have provided more than $1 million in immediate financial payments to bushfire victims across Victoria.

At Whittlesea and Wallan, two of the largest emergency response sites, The Salvation Army has assisted nearly 900 families and individuals with support and financial aid.

At Yarra Glen, Healesville and Traralgon The Salvation Army has assisted almost 500 people. The Salvation Army team at Bendigo have provided almost $40,000 in relief funds. The Salvation Army is currently working at 10 sites across the state, supporting the community in a variety of different ways.

The Salvation Army is also supporting the CFA, SES and other members of the emergency response teams at various sites in Victoria. For example, since arriving on the scene at Whittlesea last Saturday The Salvation Army has provided more than 12,000 meals to the teams who are doing an amazing job.

“The amazingly generous support from the Australian public and business community has enabled The Salvation Army to provide cash very quickly to those affected by the bushfires. In the early stages of the crisis, this is the best possible assistance we can offer to people left with nothing,” said Major Brad Halse, Communications Director.


“We have received nearly $9.2 million in donations to our Victorian Bushfire Appeal, as of 12 noon today, with more than 23,200 individual donations processed. These donations will ensure we are able to provide both the short term emergency support these communities need as well as making longer term plans to assist with the massive recovery effort needed across a great deal of our state,” he said.


“As the emergency response process continues and we move towards the recovery phase The Salvation Army will continue to offer financial, emotional and material support to individuals and families who have suffered great loss,” said Major Halse.

The Salvation Army would like to acknowledge the enormous support of key corporate supporters of the appeal in particular, IGA, and Myer. IGA has provided The Salvation Army with $1.5 million in vouchers, the largest corporate gift to date, whilst Myer has thus far raised $1.3 million for the appeal.

The appeal is still open, to donate to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal please call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or visit www.salvationarmy.org.au


Official Salvo's Bushfire Appeal Video: