Grim nationwide statistics shows why the Ulladulla Salvos need support now than possibly any other year.
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After two years of COVID-19 upheaval, more Australians than ever are feeling financial and emotional pressure this Christmas, with 10.5 million people (40.7 percent) more stressed about their finances compared to last year and 7.6 million (29.4 percent) feeling lonelier this year, making The Salvation Army's Christmas Appeal more important than ever, aiming to raise $20 million.
"While Christmas is a time of joy and celebration for many, others doing it tough in our community find it an extremely difficult period for them personally," says Ulladulla based Aux Lt Stephen Dunn.
"We are also in need of our local community to dig deep and provide donations to The Salvation Army to ensure that we can support our local community in need this Christmas.
"We are in need of toys, non-perishable food and gift cards and these can be dropped off at the Ulladulla Mission, 137 Princes Highway, Ulladulla."
"The Salvos want to leave no one in need this Christmas - we need you support."
Research undertaken by The Salvation Army shows even more concerning feedback from those who have sought support through the Salvos' Doorways Emergency Relief Services.
It shows:
83 percent of households with children are worried that they cannot afford presents for their children
56 percent are worried about not being able to afford a special Christmas Day meal
51 percent are worried and stressed about their mental health
36 percent feel lonely and isolated
44 percent did not feel important to others
Sadly, 53 percent of those who have needed to turn to The Salvos for help, report they are not looking forward to Christmas, compared with 10.3% of the general population.