The Salvation Army: An update on our response to the bushfires

The Salvation Army issued the following statement as of 23 January 2020: 

The Salvation Army’s response to the national bushfire disaster is in its fourth month. To date, we have distributed $8.4m (80 per cent) of the $11m that has been received in funds. Over $42m has been pledged to The Salvation Army since the Disaster Appeal was launched on 9 November 2019.

The Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) teams have been active in the bushfire crisis since September 2019, with over 3,000 staff and volunteers active. We have provided over 250,000 meals and over 240,000 light refreshments to first responders and evacuees.

Our personnel and mobile units continue to remain on the ground, providing a hand of friendship or a sympathetic ear. Over 3,000 Salvos personnel have been involved in our bushfire aid efforts, and 26 staff are currently managing a dedicated telephone line for financial assistance.