The Salvation Army’s annual Red Shield Appeal launch receives support each year from Hunter business leaders.
Wests Group Australia, NIB and The Greater Bank are leading the charge to support the Salvos’ largest annual appeal, with each contributing significantly to sponsor the business luncheon on 17 May and support the organisation’s work in the Hunter.
Hunter Red Shield Appeal Chairman, Bob Hawes said the participation of the region’s business leaders provides The Salvation Army an essential lifeline to people living in crisis.
“The Salvation Army has the privilege of supporting people in their time of need and they do this through a range of services that many of us wouldn’t even realise exist,” Bob said.
“It’s important that the business community understands the social issues impacting our most marginalised so that we can collectively empower the Salvos to go on doing what they do best.
“The Red Shield Appeal business luncheon is an opportunity for the Salvos to connect with hundreds of local business people – people that have a heart for this community and who want to contribute in the most meaningful way.”
This year attendees will hear from seven-time mountain bike racing world champion, Jason English. Jason’s achievements have largely gone unpublicised, chiefly due to his unassuming nature, but many recognise him as one of Australia’s most successful cyclists with successive national and international titles to his name. Jason will share his journey to international success; the gruelling daily training regime; extreme injury comebacks; and his inherent drive to test the limits.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to take part in a live auction. The Newcastle Knights have donated a catered corporate box for the 6 July game against the Warriors. Funds raised as a result of the auction will be directed in entirety to the Red Shield Appeal.
The Red Shield Appeal contributes close $1million to The Salvation Army’s Hunter social services including Oasis Youth Network, Moneycare Financial Counselling, Emergency and Disaster Relief and Rural Chaplaincy.
The programs offered by these services have been developed in direct response to local needs. It is hoped that the Hunter Red Shield Appeal launch will raise $250,000 to support these services in 2019.
The Hunter Red Shield Appeal launch will be held at NEX (corner of King and Union Streets, Newcastle) from midday to 2pm on Friday May 17. While there is no cost to attend the luncheon, attendees are encouraged to make a donation to the appeal.
IMAGE | The Hunter Red Shield Appeal launch, featuring (from left to right) Hilton Grugeon; CEO of Hunter Business Chamber, Bob Hawes; Jodie Harrison MP; and NBN News’ Natasha Beyesdorf.
