Red Shield Appeal goes wireless

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For immediate release

— Wellington, Wednesday, 6 May 2009

Red Shield Appeal goes wireless

The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal is the first street appeal in New Zealand to go wireless.

Six mobile EFTPOS machines, loaned to the Salvation Army by Skyzer Technologies, are being used to collect donations in Auckland and Wellington. Leased wireless units are also on the streets in Christchurch.

Salvation Army spokesman Major Robbie Ross says with recession pushing more and more New Zealanders into financial and emotional crisis, this new method of collection will make a difference to a lot of people.  

Skyzer Technologies director Darren Parker said as New Zealand is the highest per capita user of debit card technologies, it made sense to make the equipment available so people who don’t carry cash still have the opportunity to give.

“The Sallies are often the last line of support for the huge number of people who are doing it tougher than the rest of us, and in these challenging times, we need to do what we can to help out.”

Money donated to the Red Shield Appeal will fund The Salvation Army’s network of food banks, budget advisers, counsellors and emergency housing.

The Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal runs until May 10. Collectors will be collecting in heavy foot traffic areas such as shopping malls and train stations. Donations can also be made at www.salvationarmy.org.nz/donateor by calling 0800 53 00 00.

Issued on the Authority of Commissioner Don Bell (Territorial Commander)
The Salvation Army, New Zealand Fiji & Tonga Territory

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