$40,000 donation to Salvation Army for Red Shield Appeal

20/5/95

Premier Richard Court today presented the State Government's donation of $40,000 to the Salvation Army for its Red Shield Appeal - saying it was fitting that this year's annual fundraising event should be launched during Family Week.

Mr Court said one of the Government's priorities was to work with community organisations such as the Salvation Army to help Western Australian families in need.

"The work of the Salvation Army in providing assistance to people and families in need cannot be underestimated - many Western Australians have been helped through the many services they provide," Mr Court said.

"The Salvation Army and its work in strengthening family life is part of the history of Western Australia and the Government shares this same commitment."

The Premier said the Salvation Army had been a pioneer in providing a wide range of support services to people including helping people with drinking problems, supporting families in financial difficulty, providing a safe haven for children and teenagers who have suffered abuse and neglect and helping people develop skills and gain employment.

"Since its beginnings, over 100 years ago, the Salvation Army has continued to grow and its work in the community should be supported by all Western Australians," Mr Court said.

"The Government is proud to work in partnership with the Salvation Army providing over $2 million per year to fund and purchase services.

"This support, however, does not cover all of the costs or meet all of the organisation's demands.  Like the people it serves, the Salvation Army needs the continued support of the Western Australian people.

"The Red Shield Appeal allows us to 'Thank God for the Salvos' and provide them with some financial help and I urge all Western Australians, who can, to donate where possible."