Help the sallies
Hi neighbours,
Every year, we run our annual Red Shield Appeal to raise funds for the many wraparound services that are provided to communities around New Zealand. Usually, you would see thousands of volunteers and staff dedicating their time to collect donations on the streets, however this year, due to Covid-19, we are not able to do this.
This represents a significant loss that would have gone towards supporting thousands of individuals and families in many areas of their lives, including youth development, food support, budgeting advice, counselling and social work, addictions, housing support and practical assistance. These services are the backbone of our mission to care for others, transform lives and reform society.
To compound this income deficit, we are continuing to see increasing numbers of vulnerable families into poverty, resulting in a greater demand for Salvation Army services. Our Community Ministries Director Jono Bell explains: “The very real surge in the price of basic necessities such as food, fuel, electricity and housing are hurting the lowest income families the most and pushing others closer to the edge of need.”
This is where we need your help. We are still here, supporting those in our communities despite the pressures, as we know many of you are doing the same under the current environmental strains. We are asking if you will help us amplify the message of the Red Shield Appeal when we are not able to be as visible as we usually are. The Red Shield Appeal will be running through to the end of June this year to maximise opportunity to donate and raise these critical funds.
Please support your local Centre: - helpthesallies.nz...
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.1% Yes
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46.9% No
‘Tis the season to not get scammed ...
As Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.
Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.
There are a few ways to avoid the scams and keep yourself safe doing online trades this holiday season, says Southern District Service Delivery Manager Senior Sergeant Dalton.
🔒 “A good first step when looking to purchase something on Marketplace is to check when the seller’s Facebook profile was created. If it’s very recent, there is a higher risk that they have just created this account for a one-off fake item.”
🔒 Another important step is to make sure the seller’s profile name and bank account name match up. “We’re seeing a lot of scammers claiming their bank account name is different because it belongs to their partner or family member - that’s a huge red flag."
🔒 “When you’re selling, never trust a screenshot anyone sends you showing that payment has been made. Check your own bank account to make sure a payment has gone through."
🔒 “Quite frankly, it’s best for all parties to agree to pay, or be paid, for items in cash and in-person. Ideally in a public place with CCTV coverage."
🔒 "If you’re buying a car, check Carjam.co.nz to see if it’s stolen or if there’s money owed on it.”
A reminder: Suspicious activity can be reported on 105
Sonic Delusion at Hilltop 6/12/25
It's on tomorrow - 6/12! Too funky for folk and too folky for funk — that’s Sonic Delusion’s happy, funky, and groovy indie pop. Saturday 7.30pm. Celebrating the release of André Manella’s new single “Smoooth”, the vibrant Swiss-Kiwi performer is armed with his trusty loop pedal and an array of instruments. Sonic Delusion layers beats, baselines, and melodies into a boogielicious live performance “bursting with more funk than folk can handle.” With over 1500 shows played across Switzerland, New Zealand, Australia, and Germany, André has built a reputation for turning every gig into a feel-good party — “funny, fresh and funky… a welcome breath of entertainment, joy, fun and smiles” Graham Reid – Elsewhere. From Taranaki to the lower North Island, the “Smoooth” release tour promises catchy hooks, infectious grooves, and the perfect excuse to shake your worries away. “catchy melodic hooks that make you want to get up and dance” Amy Maynard – NZ Musician Magazine
Come along for the lovely vibe at Hilltop. Details and street number given with booking confirmation email. www.hilltophouseconcerts.co.nz..................
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