Fortescue Metals Group (Fortescue) has partnered with the Salvation Army WA to boost greater health and wellbeing outcomes for Western Australian communities.
Under the three-year partnership, Fortescue will commit $750,000 to The Salvation Army which will ensure the highest level of support and care can continue to be delivered through a range of services including homelessness, family violence, youth, addictions and emergency relief.
The Salvation Army WA public relations secretary Warren Palmer said his organisation’s ability and capacity to respond to the complexities of community needs is intrinsically linked to that of its partners such as Fortescue.
“Our partnership is built on the common values that run through both Fortescue and The Salvation Army,” he said.
“We believe care and compassion for our communities, together with the provision of human and financial resources will empower greater health and wellbeing outcomes.”
The Salvation Army experienced significant demand for its services in 2021, supporting more than 31,000 Western Australians in their greatest time of need including more than 63,000 crisis beds for those experiencing homelessness.
“Right now, across Western Australia there are thousands in our communities, friends, family and others who are or will experience hardship in some unique form,” Palmer said.
“This includes how COVID-19 will continue to impact the social fabric of our communities.
“The Salvation Army proudly stands with Fortescue in recognising that the strength and resilience of our communities are greatly enhanced when we work together in intent and purpose.”
Fortescue chief executive officer Elizabeth Gaines said she is pleased to be joining forces with The Salvation Army WA to ensure it continues to deliver essential services to Western Australians in need.
“The Salvation Army plays a critical role in positively impacting the lives of people who are marginalised, disadvantaged or experiencing a crisis by providing the support they need to get back on track,” she said.
Fortescue chief financial officer Ian Wells has been a member of The Salvation Army Business Advisory Committee since 2011 and was appointed Chair in 2019.
“Fortescue is proud to be a longstanding supporter of The Salvation Army – an organisation that embraces the Fortescue value of empowerment by providing people in need with the support and skills they need to sustainably change their lives for the better,” he said.