Two new faces have taken over the reigns at the Mandurah Salvation Army after the past corps officers of ten-years have stepped down.
Captains Erica and Michael Cosslington handed over to Leah and Scott Ellery, who will be the new corps officers of the Mandurah facility.
Michael retired earlier this month, but Erica has stayed on as an employee.
Erica said the new duo, who moved from Perth, were a perfect fit for the position.
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“We have had more young people coming in so we need youth and enthusiasm,” Erica said. “They have that abounding, as you can see.”
Leah and Scott, who have two-children, said they were excited about the move.
“There are a lot of young families around so it will be nice to connect with them, and care for the older generation we have here as well,” Leah said.
The pair are experienced officers, having ran a church in Meriwa and acted as state youth and children coordinators for three-years.
The group said the main demographic that sought help at the Mandurah centre was young single mothers, young families and retirees.
“There are young families because housing is a bit cheaper, so it’s more affordable living but there are financial difficulties that come along,” Scott said. “We are here to help anyway that we can.”
Leah said she had noticed people were lonely, a feeling that she believed the Salvation Army could help combat.
“They are looking for a community and a place to belong – we want to be that place,” she said.
Erica said the thrift shop and youth centre being built in the past five years had helped expand the centre.
She said the Saturday Salvo’s event, that started three-years ago, was a success and continued to this day.
“We found that has really met a need for families every month,” she said. “We eat, we play some songs and do crafts. It’s a way to teach families how to live in a positive way.
“We all work together to try and positively influence the community and the families that live here.”
For more information on the Mandurah Salvation Army, visit the Facebook Page or call 9535 4951.