The Salvation Army, Dubbo: Local charity shares ‘significant increase’ in past six months

A local charity in the state’s central west has revealed they have witnessed a 75 per cent increase in services in the past six months because of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Here’s the latest.

The Salvation Army in Dubbo have witnessed a 75 per cent increase in services in the past six months.

The cost-of-living crisis is continuing to impact regional communities, with visits to a local salvos program increasing by more than 75 per cent in the past six months.

The Salvos Connect program operates twice a week in Dubbo to provide free lunch, hardship advice, social support and access to shower facilities.

Orana Salvos Corps captain Daniel Wayman said that while the organisation expected a “significant increase” in people seeking services, a jump of 75 per cent in a short time was worrying.

“People are doing it tougher than normal due to cost-of-living, so they are seeking alternative ways to supplement and relieve the financial hardship,” Mr Wayman said.

“Our shower facilities are one of the only facilities in Dubbo open to the homeless so they can feel clean and have the dignity that every person has the right to.”

The Salvation Army, Dubbo with Mark Coulton, David Littleproud and captains Adrea and Daniel Wayman. Photo: Tijana Birdjan

The Nationals leader David Littleproud described Salvos workers as “heroes” who are providing essential services to people in local communities.

“It’s important that people understand the vital role that the Salvos play,” he said.

“If you can give anything, now’s the time to give to the Salvos.

“If you donate it in your local community, it stays in your local community.”

The Nationals leader David Littleproud said the organisation is a short term solution to a larger problem.

He said The Salvation Army have seen an increase in people requiring services because of interest rate hikes and the increase in food, rent, electricity and rate bills.

“In short term, we’ve got to make sure that organisations like the Salvos are funded, but that’s a band aid,” Mr Littleproud said.

Federal member for Parkes Mark Coulton said he has heard stories of families having to cut back and make sacrifices to put food on the table and keep the lights on.

“That’s why organisations like the Salvos are so important in our regional communities,” he said.

“Families who are doing it tough can always rely on the Salvos and I urge locals struggling to reach out for support and seek services that can help.”