New local chairman urges business to support Salvos Red Shield Appeal Official Opening

What: Corporate luncheon and official opening of the Hunter Red Shield Appeal

When: May 7 from 12 noon for a 12:30-2pm event

Where: Starlight Room, Wests New Lambton

Newly appointed Chairman of The Salvation Army’s Hunter Red Shield Appeal, Don Magin, is urging Hunter business people to get behind the corporate luncheon and official opening for the Appeal to be held in Newcastle on May 7.

Mr Magin said the local business community always rallies to kick-start this great annual cause. Last year’s event was attended by more than 400 people and raised more than $200,000.

He said the Appeal, which is in its 50th year, is vital in funding essential Salvo’s services that give local people a helping hand. The Appeal goal is to make a significant contribution to the $10.5 million The Salvation Army spends in the region annually.

“More than 55,000 people relied on the Salvos last year in Newcastle and the Hunter alone,“ Mr Magin said.

“In Australia, someone turns to the Salvation Army every 31 seconds, and that is only possible because of generous community support,” he said.

“Every cent raised in the Hunter Red Shield Appeal is spent on services in the Hunter.”

“You can give hope where it is needed most.”

“I am very grateful for the generous support from The Wests Group Australia in covering the cost of the luncheon.”

“We have already received  donations from a number of Hunter businesses.”

Attendance at the luncheon is by donation. People wishing to attend the luncheon or to volunteer for the Doorknock Weekend on May 30 and 31 should visit www.salvos.org.au/get-involved/help-us-fundraise/red-shield-appeal/newcastle-hunter-appeal-launch/, contact Hunter Appeal Director Amber Dale on 4929 5273 or email amber.dale@aue.salvationarmy.org

To donate to the Appeal visit www.salvos.org.au/rsanewcastle

Mr Magin is the former CEO of Greater Building Society. He is currently a Board member of HMRI, Hunter Research Foundation, Heal for Life Foundation and Hunter United Credit Union. He took over the Appeal chairmanship from Professor Maree Gleeson OAM.