Need is great, say Salvos

By Emma Sun
THE Cranbourne Salvation Army is in need of food and everyday toiletries.
At a meeting with members of the Rotary Club of Cranbourne, the Salvation Army’s Captain Kelvin Young and community support manager Kerry Jose talked about the work they do in Cranbourne.
“The idea was to bring awareness to the Rotary club to what we do and how we can help people,” Mr Young said.
Mr Young talked about the history of the Cranbourne Salvation Army, about founder William Booth, who used horses as an example to encourage people to help.
“He said if a horse broke down, people would make sure it was taken back to the stable and looked after, and if we can do that to animals we can do that to people,” Mr Young said.
He spoke about how the 60 volunteers help families in crisis and how the Cranbourne Salvation Army helped 1500 families last year.
They currently see an average of 20 families a day.
“We buy some stuff from IGA and get food donations from the food bank,” Mr Young said.
“At the moment we’re in need of toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, sanitary pads and nappies.”
Cranbourne Rotary Club president of Paul Rice said they would be taking the issue on board.
“It was heartbreaking to hear about the amount of homeless people in Cranbourne,” he said.
“The Rotary club, with the help of local business people, will make a difference by donating goods or donating goods in kind.”
The club is looking for new members. Any locals who would like more information can call president Paul Rice on 0418 369 149.