Red Shield volunteers needed

The Salvation Army is calling on Busselton to join its Red Shield Appeal Doorknock this weekend after a national report revealed the large number of Australians doing it tough.

Busselton Salvation Army captain Tim Watson said he hoped to raise $7000 this year.

“We would probably have in the order of 50 volunteers, so we’re probably down a bit at this stage, ” he said.

“In addition to the doorknock, we’re also doing some collections in shopping centres if people prefer to volunteer for that.”

The Salvation Army’s Economic and Social Impact Survey was released on Wednesday and it painted a bleak picture of Australia’s most needy.

The survey of nearly 2500 support services clients showed many were struggling to afford basic necessities for themselves and their families.

According to the report, one in four people are unable to afford a substantial meal at least once a day.

It also found 28 per cent live without heating in at least one room of the house throughout winter and 39 per cent did not have regular social contact with people, leading to a feeling of isolation and loneliness.

Nearly half were unable to find someone to help them when needed and 92 per cent had limited or no savings for emergencies.

Capt. Watson said he was not surprised by the findings which were applicable to Busselton.

“It’s definitely something we’re concerned about, ” he said.

“Things like social isolation — when you’re struggling to meet basic needs then it can be that much harder to connect with people.

“Going out for a coffee or doing something with other people which costs money can be unaffordable.”

Capt. Watson said the Salvation Army did its best to provide clients with food and clothes vouchers to combat the spiralling cost of living.

He said services such as Cliff’s Kitchen at St Mary’s Centre on Wednesdays not only provided a nourishing meal but also an opportunity for people to socialise.

The Salvation Army fears life for those living on the margins will get more difficult in light of the recent Federal Budget.

Capt. Watson said of particular concern was the $7 Medicare co-contribution fee, which was a problem for those living on $35 a day.

To volunteer for the Red Shield Appeal Doorknock in Busselton, call 9754 2733.