Number of families seeking food aid soars

 MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release
Wellington, Sunday May 3, 2009

Number of families seeking food aid jumps as appeal kicks off

The Salvation Army will launch its main fundraising drive tomorrow facing a 40 per cent increase in the number families seeking help compared to last year.

When The Salvation Army kicked-off its Red Shield Appeal in 2008, its Community Ministries, or social service centres, had provided 7316 food parcels to 5600 families during the first three months of the year.

In the first quarter of this year, the number of food parcels distributed jumped 44 per cent to 10,517 and the number of families receiving food aid climbed to 7835, including 5180 families coming to The Salvation Army for the first time.

Another 1000 families received furniture, clothing and other practical assistance. The Salvation Army also saw a 15 per cent rise in the number of families receiving budget advice and an increased flow of families and individuals seeking emergency accommodation.

Salvation Army spokesman Major Robbie Ross says the recession is clearly having a severe impact on New Zealand’s most vulnerable families.

“While the situation for a growing number of families is worrying we’re confident, that with the continuing support of the New Zealand public, we can ease some of their economic and emotional distress.”

Last year, The Salvation Army helped more than 100,000 New Zealanders providing food aid, counselling, budget advice, life and parenting skill programmes, employment training, alcohol and drug treatment, problem gambling programmes, supportive accommodation, help and support for seniors, and programmes for at-risk youth.

The Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal week runs from May 4 to May 10. Collectors will be collecting in heavy foot traffic areas such as shopping malls and train stations. Donations can also be made at www.salvationarmy.org.nz/donateor by calling 0800 53 00 00.

Issued on the Authority of Commissioner Don Bell (Territorial Commander)
The Salvation Army, New Zealand Fiji & Tonga Territory

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