EIGHTEEN months ago, Andy was struggling.

The then-41-year-old had a serious drinking problem he had been living with for many years; on top of that, he had run into troubles with the law and was experiencing financial stress.

One night he ended up in hospital, where he was given information on local rehabilitation services.

He was fortunate to begin rehabilitation at the Salvation Army very soon after, marking the beginning of a process that would turn his whole life around.

It is for this reason that Andy is encouraging people to support the organisation during its Red Shield Appeal.

Not only have the Salvation Army helped Andy address his alcoholism, but they have provided financial counselling, supported him through a court case, and he has worked with a chaplain on the underlying emotional issues that have contributed to his drinking.

Andy said the team in Bendigo had provided him with support “from the word go” and he had never had to go it alone.

“It was difficult, but the support and guidance from the Salvation Army is the reason I am where I am today,” he said.

Since seeking help from the Salvos, Andy said he had become sober, was no longer in trouble with the law, and was a good father and good member of the community.

He is also thankful for the support the Salvos have provided his family, particularly his eight-year-old youngest daughter.

Bendigo corps officer Andrew Walker said there was no one organisation who could meet the great need in the world and in Bendigo, but the Salvos endeavoured to make a difference to lives.

“You change the world one life at a time,” he said.

He said funds raised during the Red Shield Appeal would go towards programs that helped people like Andy get back on their feet.

“We value every person who helps us… because every dollar given helps someone,” Major Walker said.

This year the Salvos hope to raise $60,000 through the appeal in Bendigo.

Salvation Army public relations secretary Craig Wood said Bendigo received more than $200,000 from the Red Shield Appeal, which meant every cent raised in Bendigo, stayed in Bendigo.

He said this was an indication of how great the need for support was in the area.

While the charity is faith-based, he said it helped anyone in need.

“We would encourage people to dig deep to give hope,” he said.

Hundreds of volunteers will be door-knocking in Bendigo this weekend.

Others will collect donations in public places, such as shopping centres, where donations will able to be made by card for the first time.