The Salvation Army will be hosting donation points on Saturday, May 20 and then from May 22 to 28 outside Aldi and Woolworths.

They’ll receive support from the Rural Fire Brigade, who will be hosting a donation point at McDonalds on Saturday and Sunday, May 27 and 28, Rotary, Cowra Public School, St Raphael’s Catholic School and Holmwood Public School.

For the first time, and as one of 400 locations in Australia, a donation point in Cowra will have an EFTPOS donation machine for those who don’t carry cash on themselves, while donations can still be made online.

Major Cathryn Williamson encourages members of the public to give generously. 

“I think anything is worth a try. Most people work by credit card these days so the tap is convenient,” she said in regards to the donation tap point.

“Cowra’s been very supportive the past few years. The past three years The Salvation Army at Cowra has raised more than $35,000.

“Our result in 2015 was $14,000, last year was almost $12,000 so this year the goal is $12,000.

“We will have static points so people can make donations at those points, they can get a receipt if they want. I have volunteers manning and looking after those spots all day everyday for the week.”

Donations will ensure the existence of many of The Salvation Army’s key community support services such as counselling, drug and alcohol treatment, family tracing and homelessness.

Statistics reveal in a typical week The Salvation Army provides 100,000 meals, 2000 beds for people experiencing homelessness, distributes up to 8000 grocery vouchers and provides refuge for 500 people fleeing abuse.

Cathryn is asking volunteers to contact her if they wish to offer a couple of hours of time to help.

The donation tap point will be stationed at the Woolworths donation point on Saturday, May 20 and from May 22 to 28.

Cathryn warned the public to be aware of scammers, and noted all volunteers have IDs and authorised receipt books from The Salvation Army.