They’re the first port of call for anyone who’s down on their luck or suffering from an addiction, a natural disaster or a sadness.

You know you’ll always get understanding and a practical hand.

2018 was a huge year for Tamworth’s Salvation Army. As the hearts of the community have turned towards our farming families, the Salvo’s have been there distributing help and staying around to make sure everyone’s OK.

December has been particularly heavy with the bikies’ Toy Run, followed by distribution of food vouchers and gifts to 1100 people in needy households. Some of the team have been working past midnight to get it all ready.

Then a week before Christmas they go and host a massive Christmas dinner with a full roast and dessert and invite all the needy to come.

And they came, 300 of them. It didn’t matter if you were short of a quid, or feeling lonely or just needed a little Christmas cheer. No-one asked questions. All were welcome. 

It was a happy crowd that tucked into the feast and the local Tamworth community rallied to make it happen. 

The cooking was done by Meals on Wheels. The food was served by members of the Ulysses Motorcycle Club, the Westpac Helicopter and others.

Trena Bennett from Ulysses Motorcycle Club has been helping for three years. She says, “We just rang the Salvos and asked how we could help. It’s so rewarding to be working with them because it’s a way we can show love to people.”