Coca-Cola has today announced the fifth year of its Christmas partnership with The Salvation Army, aimed at supporting Aussies most in need. Coca-Cola will contribute up to 5,000 meals to The Salvation Army’s 2023 100,000 Meals Campaign.
With cost-of-living pressure and financial uncertainty top of mind for many Aussies, The Salvation Army anticipates a huge surge in the number of people seeking support this year.
According to research from The Salvation Army, more than 12.8 million adults, or 62%, are ending their year worried about their finances, a 12% increase from last year. Additionally, one in four Aussies will struggle to put food on the table this Christmas.
To help reduce the financial stress experienced by many during the holiday period, The Salvation Army’s 100,000 Meals Campaign will make an incredible difference within communities that are doing it tough. Coca-Cola’s contribution of 5,000 meals will directly support people in local communities around Australia.
For anyone unable to prepare their own meal this year or who may be in need of company, community meal events will be running in the days leading up to Christmas and on Christmas Day.
Community members can enjoy a range of events, including delicious catered breakfasts, brunches, lunches, and dinners, all shared over great conversation with friendly faces. Some meal events will also include festive activities, including carols, crafts, and more.
Community members are encouraged to reach out to their local Salvos to find out more about meal events running in their local area, or visit, https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/christmas/events/
The Salvation Army’s NSW Public Relations Secretary, Andrew Hill, says, “We’re preparing for a huge Christmas period and expect to see more people reaching out for help across our services. We’re grateful for the support of Coca-Cola, which is donating up to 5,000 meals towards our 100,000 Meals Campaign. This will have an enormous impact on communities across Australia – a delicious and hearty meal is so much more when it’s enjoyed together – whether it be families or friends doing it tough or individuals within the community connecting with other community members – this Christmas initiative is about coming together in a supportive and friendly environment and feeling the magic of Christmas.”
Kate Miller, Marketing Director at Coca-Cola South Pacific, says, “Christmas can be a difficult time and this year places extra financial and emotional stress, particularly on families and our most vulnerable community members. This year our Christmas campaign, ‘The World Needs More Santas,’ is all about finding your ‘inner Santa’ and sharing joy and kindness this festive season.”
“We’re proud to play our part in spreading joy this Christmas and encouraging kindness and connection by supporting The Salvos in their mission and contributing up to 5,000 delicious meals to community members who need it.”
To donate a meal to The Salvation Army’s 100,000 Meals Campaign, visit: www.salvationarmy.org.au/100kmealscca
