BATHURST residents won't find Salvation Army volunteers on their doorsteps for this year's Red Shield Appeal.
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In recent years, the door-knocking efforts of volunteers have produced less-than-stellar results for the annual fundraiser, with the Bathurst branch often struggling to reach five-figure sums.
From 2013 through to 2016, a maximum of $7600 was raised on the final day of the door-knocking weekend, with the total being as low as $5500 one year.
In 2017, just $8087.45 was counted on the final day of the door-knocking weekend, although the donations did roll in afterwards, doubling to a six-year high of $16,000.
- READ MORE: A disappointing result for Red Shield Appeal
It is hard not be disappointed by the average totals, given nearby Orange regularly raises more than $40,000.
But the Bathurst branch of the Salvation Army has come up with a new approach to the Red Shield Appeal this year.
"In the past, we have tried to do door knocking, but in the last few years we’ve had trouble doing it," volunteer Kevin Howard said.
"We are going to have static tables at the three shopping centres and there will be a barbecue at Bunnings on the Sunday."
The static collection points will start on Thursday and continue through to Sunday.
Mr Howard said volunteers from the community are needed to man the tables over the coming days.
“If they’ve got an hour or two to sit at the table and help collect donations, that would be lovely,” he said.
Anyone interested in volunteering is asked to contact Mr Howard on 0429 342 706.
Members of the community looking to donate to the appeal can visit shopping centres from 9am to 3pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and from 9am to 1pm on Sunday.
The Red Shield Appeal began in 1965 and each year since the Salvation Army has appealed to Australians for donations to ensure the charity can continue to support people through its various programs.
These services are used daily by vulnerable people and range from providing shelter for the homeless to guiding people with addictions through to have a clean, healthy lifestyle.
Mr Howard said the donations from Bathurst people during the Red Shield Appeal will go a long way.
“It is very important because it is there to help people who are disadvantaged, not just in our community, but right across Australia,” he said.
