Countdown stores in New Zealand will partner with The Salvation Army’s annual Red Shield Appeal program in their campaign to help Kiwi families in need.

Countdown will make donating to the Red Shield Appeal accessible to its customers at the checkout or to Salvation Army volunteers who will be collecting outside Countdown stores until May 17.

“We’re proud of the work we do nationwide with The Salvation Army to help those in need,” said James Walker, Countdown head of corporate affairs. “The Red Shield Appeal is a major fundraising activity that enables The Salvation Army to help Kiwis in need – we’re proud to once again support them this year.”

More than 180 Countdown stores support The Salvation Army through the Countdown Food Rescue Program. Last year, the Countdown Food Rescue Programme saw $3.5 million worth of food donated to food banks around the country to help Kiwi families in need. Countdown has also partnered with The Salvation Army on The Foodbank Project, a not-for-profit online grocery store that enables food to be quickly, easily and securely donated online to fill Salvation Army food parcels.

Major Pam Waugh, national secretary of Social Services for The Salvation Army, said the generous donations received from Countdown customers will help to provide much-needed support services which includes life skills programmes and budgeting advice, as well as emergency help with food and clothing.