Joint Salvation Army-Ministry of Social Development
People to benefit from closer MSD-Salvation Army relations

Wellington, 13 December, 2007. The Ministry of Social Development and The Salvation Army have signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening their partnership in helping people in need.

“We have worked together over many years helping mutual clients who needed jobs, training, help with addiction, accommodation and other assistance. This agreement takes our relationship to the next level,” said Ministry Chief Executive Peter Hughes.

The Salvation Army provides a range of practical community-based programmes under contract to the Ministry. These include intensive family support services such as emergency housing, support of teen mums and their babies, and family crisis counselling, as well as life skills development programmes, budgeting advice, employment training and youth services.

“This agreement recognises the importance and value of the partnership between our two organisations, and the opportunities that exist to improve responses for those in need of our services,” Peter Hughes said.

Salvation Army Territorial Commander, Commissioner Garth McKenzie, said that the agreement will strengthen the working relationship, with greater sharing of information and expertise, and streamlining of administration processes.

“This is a great step forward because we will be able to put more of our efforts and resources into helping people who are in need.”

Commissioner McKenzie says that the agreement will not impinge on the ability of The Salvation Army to continue providing services independently of government when necessary.

“One of the great strengths of The Salvation Army is its ability to work both co-operatively and independently of government as the circumstances and need dictates,” said Commissioner McKenzie.

ENDS

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