THE Salvation Army expects to help more than 300,000 Australians in need this Christmas with basics such as food, bills and accommodation.
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The Salvos are asking the community to help in any way they can.
Graham and Christine Longbottom of The Salvation Army Bowral said poverty and financial hardship could be extremely isolating experiences.
Graham said The Salvation Army Bowral helped a variety of people in the area, from Picton to Marulan and Robertson to Canyonleigh.
He said people needed assistance for a range of reasons.
"In some situations people have lost jobs or a family member has an illness and they can't make ends meet and it spirals from there," Graham said.
Christine said poverty and financial hardships hit home even more during the Christmas and New Year period.
"While people are gathering to enjoy time with family and friends for the celebrations, some people are not able to even give a gift, get together with friends or go on any kind of holiday."
Christine said in January last year, there was an 18 per cent increase in calls to Salvo Care Line.
"What we know is that the Salvo Care Line gets more calls in the period during and after Christmas than at any other time of year.
"A lot of people feel the pain and pressure of loneliness, stress, financial difficulty, relationship breakdown or family conflict during this period than at any other time of the year," she said.
"Sometimes it is the expectations on themselves, other family members and friends and the idea of having 'a perfect time' that can cause issues."
Christine said if people needed assistance this Christmas, they could apply for it by contacting 4861 3912 and an appointment could be set up. Applications are open until December 5.
The Salvation Army will serve around 10,000 meals in the lead up to Christmas and on the day itself.
At least 100,000 food vouchers and hampers will be given to people in need.
It is estimated more than half a million toys and gifts will be distributed to people in need.
To donate gifts, visit the Salvation Army store on Kirkham Road, Bowral or visit the church at 10 Bunderoo Street, Bowral.
To donate to The Salvation Army Christmas Appeal, call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or online at www.salvos.org.au/Christmas
The Salvos say anyone needing support can call their free 24/7 counselling service - Salvo Care Line - on 1300 36 36 22.
On Christmas Day, there will be a church service at 9am and everyone is welcome.