Pork on the Christmas menu for Sydney’s needy

This Christmas, despite 95 percent of the state declared drought stricken, NSW pig farmers will continue their tradition of donating hams and pork roasts to some of the most disadvantaged people in Sydney.

In total The Salvation Army expects to assist more than 300, 000 people across Australia this Christmas.

In Sydney each year the Salvation Army hosts a Christmas lunch for over 1,000 disadvantaged and homeless people in Surry Hills.  Salvation Army’s Captain Robbin Moulds who organises the annual Christmas lunch said, “At Christmas, more than any other time of year, people turn to The Salvation Army for help. This donation by the NSW pork industry is a truly generous act and will make sure we can feed those in need.”

Captain Moulds said this year we are thrilled to obtain donations of pork and ham from Australian Pork Limited (APL), the NSW Farmers Association and Hans Swickers in an effort to undertake this huge task.

NSW Farmers Association President Jock Laurie said it is acts of generosity like these that make him proud to represent farmers. “All farmers, not just those in NSW, are hurting badly and yet they continue to find the heart to give to others. This shows the real spirit of rural Australia.”

Chairman of Australia Pork Limited (APL) Enzo Allara said Australia’s pig producers are among the best in the world. “Their genuine commitment to animal care underpins the quality of our pork provided to all consumers. The industry, despite current adversity, sees it as an important gesture to share good will at Christmas.”

Captain Robbin Moulds said the Salvos have a strong history with rural Australia.  “This is really what Christmas is all about. On the one hand, the services of our rural chaplains and Salvation Army officers in the bush are in great demand providing support to families in rural Australia – and yet on the other hand here are some of those very people giving what they can to help those experiencing hardship. It makes you proud to be Australian.”

The NSW pork industry will host a special breakfast on the Tuesday 19 December 2006 at The Street Level Mission, Derby Lane, off Albion Street, Darlinghurst, 7.30 a.m. kick off to present their Christmas contribution. The breakfast will also be a special thanks to the wonderful army of volunteers who work tirelessly to deliver events such as this. All media are welcome to join in the breakfast.

Thanks to the generosity of Australians, last Christmas more than $20 million worth of food vouchers, hampers and toys were distributed by the Salvos to people in need.

How can you individually assist the Salvos:
You can help all those in need in our community have a good Aussie Christmas by supporting The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal. Tax deductible donations can be made by phoning 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or visit salvos.org.au.

For interviews and details contact:
Emily Mackintosh
General Manager, Communication
Australian Pork Limited
Telephone: 02 62852200 or
Mobile : 0418 697 595