Rio Tinto begins season of giving with donation to Salvos

Busselton Salvos have been gifted toys from Rio Tinto to kick off their Christmas Appeal for 2023.

Toys included balls, boogie boards and stuffed animals which will go to children and families struggling as part of an expected 3000 gift and food hampers to go out this year.

The donation is even more important this year with the cost of living pushing many more to their limits.

Salvation Army Captain Mark Schatz said the donation would make a big difference for the community.

“Christmas is a special time of the year and we don’t want families going without,” he said.

“But we also acknowledge that the economic situation is such that people’s capacity to give may be reduced this year.

“We are therefore, very thankful for this donation from Rio Tinto.”

Rio Tinto spokesperson Claire Somerville-Brown said Rio Tinto was happy to give back as nearly 1400 FIFO staff lived in the South West.

“We are grateful for the incredible work the Salvation Army does,” she said.

“This appeal enables us to give back to the South West community which has supported our FIFO operations since 2007.”

Gifts can be donated to Salvos at the Wishing Tree in Kmart stores or delivered to the South West Salvation Army Centre in Busselton. Donations can also be made at https://community.salvationarmy.org.au/o/busselton-salvos.

Those looking to access gifts must register before collection by calling either the Busselton or Bunbury Salvation Army offices.