The Salvation Army, Blackburn, recently held a special appreciation event to officially acknowledge the significant and remarkable fundraising efforts of the Chinese community in Melbourne.
Le Pine Funerals, who have a long history supporting The Salvation Army, were invited along as thanks for their efforts in raising money and supporting families devastated by the floods. Commissioner Raymond Finger, Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army Australia Southern Territory acknowledged and gave thanks for the hard work and dedication shown by the Chinese community, affiliated organisations, family, friends and colleagues.
He recognised that many volunteered weekends and evenings and organised special events to help raise funds so The Salvation Army could care for people affected by the floods. “It gives me great pleasure to be able to formally acknowledge your outstanding efforts and ongoing desire to help us help people in need. On behalf of The Salvation Army, please accept our heartfelt and sincere thanks for your remarkable fundraising efforts”, said Commissioner Finger.
An extraordinary total of over $620,000 was raised for flood relief. Never before has such a total been raised for The Salvation Army by a Chinese community anywhere in Australia. The amount raised by the Chinese community in Melbourne to support the overall work of The Salvation Army is more than $1 million.
Over the years, Le Pine and the Chinese community have been involved in many fundraising activities to help The Salvation Army. They have also worked together to raise funds for the Victorian Bushfire Appeal, the South Asia Tsunami Appeal, the Chinese Earthquake Appeal, and many more.