VOLUNTEERS are getting red-dy to raise funds for the Salvation Army this weekend.
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The Red Shield Appeal Door Knock will be held on Saturday and Sunday.
Organisers raised about $60,000 through the launch event and the door knock in Orange last year, which was above the NSW state average.
The Salvation Army’s Tony Rodd said organisers hope to recruit about 400 volunteers and raise about $60,000.
“To cover all of Orange in full we need about 400 volunteers which is a lot,” Mr Rodd said.
“That gives us a chance to knock on every door in Orange.
“We haven’t always met that target so the more volunteers, the better.”
Mr Rodd said the funds helped a large section of the community as well as across Australia.
“Unfortunately in Orange there’s a lot of homeless people, people suffering from ill health, domestic violence and people who might be unemployed or down on their luck in income,” he said.
“We regularly help out these people.
“We’re quick on state and national level to help with natural disasters and anyone in need around Australia.”
A large contingent of the volunteers will be high school students.
Orange High School school captain Tori Writer said she and 50 of her fellow students had signed up for the door knock.
“It’s such a great cause, [the Salvation Army] does so much for the Orange community and Australia-wide,” Tori said.
“I think that’s why most people want to do it.
“It’s just a couple of hours out of your day, it’s not very hard and you just go around asking people for donations.”
Tori said volunteers donated their time out of gratitude.
“It’s about realising how much the Salvation Army do for the community,” she said.
“To be able to give back would be amazing.”
Orange High School year 12 student Lauren Kerwick said the involvement of high school students in the appeal meant the spirit of the weekend was passed onto the next generation.
“We’re a massive community of schools and I think it’s a great thing to do,” Lauren said.
“If we spread awareness as young people then we can grow up helping out.”
Volunteers can sign up prior to the event or on the day.
If you are unable to donate this weekend, there are several ways to support the Salvation Army.
Visit www.salvos.org.au, walk into any Westpac branch or go to the Salvation Army store in Kite Street.
Contact: 6361 3578