The real estate industry is throwing its weight behind The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal, with those in crisis needing more support than ever this year as one in seven families struggle to buy basics like food and fuel.    

Kicking off this week until 12 December, the Christmas Appeal is just one of the vital community programs that REIWA supports as part of its long-term partnership with the Salvos, allowing them to continue their vital work in WA, particularly in response to homelessness. 

REIWA CEO Cath Hart said Christmas could be a challenging time for families, particularly with increased cost of living pressures. 

“About 14,000 West Australian families asked The Salvation Army for help during Christmas last year and with rental vacancy rates at record lows, homelessness rates increasing and families struggling with cost of living pressures, The Salvation Army are expecting that to increase to about 20,000 requests this year,” Ms Hart said. 

“We’re urging everyone to think beyond themselves this Christmas and consider sharing some support with others. Whether that’s buying a gift voucher for a teenager to unwrap on Christmas Day, going through your pantry for non-perishable items you can donate, raiding your present cupboard for new toys or gifts for young children to receive – The Salvation Army and thousands of Perth children and families will be so grateful for any assistance you can provide. 

“The best-case scenario this year is that The Salvation Army is inundated with gifts and donations and no one has to go without this Christmas. Let's make that our aim and make some wishes come true for those who need it most.” 

The Salvation Army said every Christmas sees The Salvation Army witness the acute needs being faced by Australians doing it tough.  

“Our hope at Christmas is for no one to have to do it alone. Through our incredible 10-year plus partnership with REIWA and their Community REInvest members, the Salvos have been able to provide thousands of gifts to families and individuals in need at Christmas,” the Salvos’ spokesperson Warren Palmer said.  

“What is undeniable is that through a small act of kindness, like contributing a gift to the Salvos’ Christmas Appeal, you can bring the true meaning of hope and joy to someone in need this Christmas.”  

REIWA members are making it easier than ever to donate, with 57 agencies offering up their offices as collection points across the metropolitan area as well as in Albany, Dunsborough, Geraldton and Kalgoorlie. REIWA’s head office at 215 Hay Street Subiaco is also accepting donations.  

For a full list of gift ideas and non-perishable food suggestions, visit the REIWA Community REInvest website. Alternatively, if you are time-poor or avoid shopping at all costs, monetary donations are always welcome online at the Salvos.