Coronavirus Response: March 24, 2020

The Salvation Army is adapting its social services programs as Australians face an extended period of challenge and hardship during the battle against the Coronavirus.

The Salvos expect a sharp rise in demand for support as the economic impact of the COVID-19 public health crisis pushes many people into a state of emotional and financial duress.

In addition to transitioning its 'essential' social services to meet the new delivery environment, The Salvation Army is following government and health advice about physical distancing in the management of its thousands of staff and volunteers, as those who can work from home will do so.

Salvation Army primary services considered ‘essential’ include:

• Aged care
• Homelessness services
• Alcohol and other drugs
• Youth services
• Family Violence Services
• Strategic Emergency Disaster Management
• Doorways and Emergency Relief
• Bushfire recovery (Telephone assistance)

There is also The Salvation Army's ongoing work in delivering financial relief and support for Australians coping with the consequences of poverty, drought and recent bushfires.

The Salvation Army's National Secretary for Mission, Lt-Colonel Lyn Edge:

"We are committed to our ongoing work with and alongside vulnerable Australians. We are listening to government advice and adapting to respond to our current situation.

"Many of our programs and services are considered essential services and will continue. Things like homelessness program, our emergency relief, our bushfire and drought responses.

"We're committed to those we are already working with, and will respond, as we are able, to the emerging need in these days ahead.

"While our frontline services will remain focused on responding to the growing community need, leadership will look towards the lessons learned and how The Salvation Army could creatively and appropriately adapt the way it operates – from social services to Sunday worship at its faith community centres and public engagement."