TWO envoys from the Pathfinders AIDS/HIV Awareness Youth Team met with Salvation Army Captain, Robert Mills on Wednesday to present a very special gift.
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The team raised $318.80 from people and business during their awareness day about AIDS/HIV on November 25.
“We didn’t even ask for a donation; we just told them they didn’t have to donate but they were kind enough to give us money,” team member Brayden Chiplin said.
Brayden and fellow team member, Cody Sydenham delivered the funds for the Salvation Army Christmas appeal. Cody felt Salvation Army was reaching out for locals in need.
“They’re helping out homeless people. They don’t have very much money, so they can help them out with blankets and that so they can stay comfortable,” he said.
Brayden had a personal reason to take actions to help this season and shared a story of his own.
“One of my reasons is children at Christmas time; having hard times and they can’t celebrate Christmas because of money troubles,” he said.
“I remember one year, by family, we were having a bit of trouble and I came to Salvos and I got some stuff for Christmas, and it’s surprising that a little bit actually goes a long way.
“And it actually really made me feel happy that Christmas.”
Captain Mills said he and Alana said they have had constant enquiries for welfare this year. He felt grateful the youth had stepped forward to give at this time of year to ease the burden for families.
“It feels encouraging that the heart of the community is for not of themselves or their situations, but other people, where they might be alone, hurting; whether it’s through the drought, or family issues that make Christmas not a time of joy but sorrow in a sense, and hardship,” Captain Mills said. If you would like to donate to the Salvation Army Christmas appeal, food, toys or funds may be delivered to the Family Store in Otho Street. All donations are very welcome and will be available for locals in need.
