This festive season, Coca-Cola Australia is inviting Australians to share messages of kindness that will light up Melbourne’s largest billboard while helping provide meals to those in need. From December 9 to 15, every note of kindness displayed on the Emporium billboard will contribute $10 towards Coca-Cola’s $50,000 donation to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal.
A Tradition of Giving Back
Since 2017, Coca-Cola has partnered with The Salvation Army to support Aussie families and individuals struggling during the holidays. This year, the campaign aims to raise a total of $100,000, the equivalent of 10,000 meals, proving that small acts of kindness can make a significant impact.
Kate Miller, Marketing Director at Coca-Cola Australia, emphasized the importance of the partnership:
“Coca-Cola and meals have always been a perfect partnership. We’re proud to work with The Salvos again to bring this initiative to life. With the help of Australians, we can reach our goal of giving 10,000 meals to families and communities in need this Christmas.”
Rising Need Amid Cost-of-Living Pressures
The Salvation Army is preparing for increased demand this year as financial challenges continue to affect Australians. Recent research reveals:
- 48% of Aussies plan to buy fewer gifts for their children.
- 56% (11.9 million people) are cutting back on food spending.
Major Gary Masters, National Communications Manager for The Salvation Army, highlighted the growing need:
“Christmas is the busiest time of year for The Salvos. With more people facing homelessness, struggling to pay bills, or feeling lonely, we want to ensure everyone experiences the Christmas they deserve.”
Community Dinners for Hard-Hit Areas
In addition to its Notes of Kindness campaign, Coca-Cola is donating $25,000 to support five communities in need. These funds will provide Community Christmas Dinners in areas deeply affected by challenges such as homelessness, flooding, and cost-of-living pressures. Beneficiary locations include:
- Richmond Corps
- The Well in Victoria
- Lismore Corps
- Liverpool Corps
- Brisbane Street Level Mission
Major Masters expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting its impact on communities:
“This campaign creates opportunities for people to come together, share a hearty meal, and experience the magic of Christmas in a supportive environment.”
Get Involved
Australians can contribute by submitting their Notes of Kindness via the Coca-Cola website. Each note brings joy to Melbourne’s iconic billboard and helps deliver much-needed meals to families in need this holiday season.
Together, Coca-Cola and The Salvation Army are making Christmas brighter for those facing hardship, reminding us all of the power of kindness and community.
