The Salvation Army has praised Wimmera and Grampians residents after $20,000 was raised in Ararat and Horsham during the weekend’s Red Shield Appeal.
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More than 50 locals braved the cold, can in hand, to raise money for the annual appeal, which brought mixed results for groups in the region.
Across the state donations were down 6.9 per cent, with Horsham Salvation Army branch falling $5000 short of its $15,000 goal.
Stawell Salvation Army branch said its takings were down on last year, but was hopeful it would reach the $5000 tally by the end of June, when the appeal ends.
Ararat Salvation Army branch defied the state trend, raising $500 more than last year’s $4500 total.
Ararat Salvation Army Lieutenant Greg Turnbull said he was amazed by the generosity of individuals and businesses who helped the branch reach its $5000 goal.
“We had a great response, people were giving multiple times which was great to see. All of the money raised goes to Salvo’s social services, so thank you to everyone who gave,” he said.
“The Domino’s Pizza in town supported us this year and gave $1 from every pizza sold on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, which helped us get to our goal.”
The Horsham branch raised more than $9000, with the tally likely to be bumped above $10,000 once the centre completes its final count.
Horsham Salvation Army Lieutenant Carolyn Wright said there was a great response on the weekend, despite the overall tally being lower than recent years.
“On the actual day we were up on last year, but overall we’re down. We raised over $13,000 last year during our fundraising time,” she said.
Lieutenant Wright said the branch would continue fundraising until June 4 and was impressed by the community’s willingness to help in hard times.
“I think it’s just the current climate of the town, areas are still in drought and everyone’s doing it tough,” she said.
“We had a really good response. People are so generous I always feel blessed when I’m on the street.
“The town’s shops and businesses were fantastic. They gave over $900.”
Stawell Salvation Army Captain Ken Agnew said he was optimistic the group would reach $5000, even if the branch was slightly down on donations.
“We’re a little down at the moment but I’m positive we’re closing in on last year’s total,” he said.
“Hopefully we’ll edge up there. People can still donate and have it counted towards the appeal.”
Captain Agnew thanked locals for their generosity and encouraged them to keep donating.