Dedicated collector Bill Millar back on Whangarei streets for Salvation Army's Red Shield Appeal

Bill Millar is happy to lend a hand to the Salvation Army's Red Shield Appeal in Whangarei again. Photo / Michael Cunningham

Despite serving the Salvation Army almost his entire life, Bill Millar reckons he'll keep going until he drops.

The 74-year-old was out on Whangarei's streets with a collection bucket for the umpteenth time for the Salvation Army's annual Red Shield Appeal that started yesterday and runs until Saturday.

Millar was collecting in Kamo yesterday and said the generosity of people had been amazing.

He ran the Salvation Army's Whangarei branch from 1994 to 2000 and returned to Northland after a brief stint in Auckland. Even after retiring from service eight years ago, the desire to pitch in and help burns stronger each year.

Millar has been involved with the appeal every year since 1994.

"People align themselves with the Salvation Army because they see it as a way of helping others less fortunate. I have huge respect for the integrity of Salvation Army.

"My Christian journey has produced in me a compassion for people. There are very fine people caught in alcohol and drugs addictions and mental health. Here, we contribute to the healing journey," Millar said.

He is delighted at seeing people's lives change for the better over the years after timely intervention. Millar says he is fortunate to volunteer alongside wonderful people who take great pride in helping the poor and needy in the community.

The Salvation Army in Whangarei raises about $16,000 from the appeal every year.

Salvation Army Whangarei welfare services manager Marlene Bowers said money raised helped its food bank and various other programmes such as community and school outreach.

Each week, Salvation Army provides food to between 80 and 120 students in Whangarei.

"New Zealanders are generous at particular times and our appeal is one of those times," she said.

An average of 17 new families every week sought the Whangarei Salvation Army's help last year. They were part of the 120,000 New Zealanders helped throughout the country.

• To support the appeal, visit www.salvationarmy.org.nz.