In an effort to keep the massive Salvation Army initiative on track and safe for the school children who help out, Coffs Harbour and Sawtell organiser Robert Mill has developed a driver system to ferry collectors from the church to their area and back.

Coffs Harbour Salvation Army Major Stephen Metcher said without drivers, the system wouldn’t work.

“We desperately need drivers to give up about three-and-a-half hours on a Sunday morning to help out,” Major Metcher said.

“We have had a wonderful response from local high schools with about 90 children from Bishop Druitt and another 90 from the Christian Community College putting their names down to be collectors.”

Mortgage stress and the deepening issue of higher food, petrol and rent prices mean The Salvation Army needs needs more support than ever for its annual Red Shield Appeal fundraising drive.

The rising expenses of everyday living has seen all kinds of people turn to The Salvation Army for financial assistance, according to Red Shield Appeal director Major Gary Masters.

“Hundreds of thousands of Australians are currently in crisis and need support because of issues such as homelessness, domestic violence and drug and alcohol problems,” Major Masters said.

He said on the Coffs Coast The Salvation Army budgets were stretched to the limit helping people in need.

“It is very tough for many people right now,” Major Masters said.

“Higher food and petrol prices and the cost of rent are really impacting on people who are already having a tough time.

“We are seeing an impact from mortgage stress that cannot be measured yet.

“What we do know is it is a serious problem. Much more so than 12 months ago – and it’s deepening.”

Coffs Coast residents have been asked to dig deep during the doorknock on May 25.

n To help out as a driver or collector in the Coffs Harbour and Sawtell areas, phone Robert Mill, 0406 489 667, and to help out north of Coffs Harbour, phone Major Metcher, 0418 127 359.