At the annual Logan Chamber of Commerce Christmas breakfast, Rowan Johnstone from Logan Salvation Army Mission spoke about what they do for the community and how locals can get involved.
Rowan Johnstone said tragically 1.1 million Australians will go without any food this Christmas.
“Christmas is the busiest time of year for The Salvos, and this year we expect it to be our biggest ever,” he said.
“1 in 10 Queenslanders will go into debt this Christmas.
“At Christmas, The Salvation Army will distribute more than 30,000 hampers and vouchers, give out more than 500,000 gifts and toys and support more than 50,000 families in need.”
Mr Johnstone said the Logan Salvation Army Mission is a community drop-in centre opposite the Logan Entertainment Centre, providing a safe place for the Logan community.
“Especially those who are most vulnerable, or who require physical, emotional and spiritual needs,” he said.
“Services include emergency welfare assistance, financial counselling and case work. Free weekly haircuts, Tuesday night sausages and jam, food and music gatherings in our car park, and regular lunches with multicultural communities, cooking, and sharing food and culture to promote a better understanding within Logan communities.
“We partner with the Logan Youth Justice department, where teenagers cook meals and serve them to community members and train to serve barista coffee.”
Mr Johnstone said the Red Shield Appeal is The Salvation Army’s annual fundraising drive that appeals to the Australian community for donations.
“From providing shelter for the homeless, assisting families in crisis through practical support and financial counselling, to guiding people with addictions through to a clean, healthy lifestyle,” he said.
“We can only do all this with the support of local communities.
“I am looking for key influencers to help us stage the inaugural Logan City Red Shield Appeal Breakfast in late May or early June, 2021.
“With all funds raised to go to the Salvos work in this city and for the benefit of those who live here.”
Mr Johnstone has asked for those who feel they can help to make contact with Logan Salvation Army Mission.
