LAST MEETING
Captain Sally and Captain Lloyd Stanimirovic from the Salvation Army joined us at tonight’s meeting to share their journey and the work the Salvos are doing here in Tamworth. Sally spoke about her disrupted and often traumatic early years, and how, after becoming a young mum and facing significant personal hardship, she eventually found stability, purpose, and hope through the Salvation Army community. Her story highlighted the transformative power of support, faith, and service.
Sally and Lloyd married in 2007 and raised three children, navigating their share of challenges along the way, including their eldest daughter's life‑threatening pneumonia in 2011 and a serious illness for Lloyd in 2016. In 2015 they moved to Sydney to undertake Salvation Army officer training, committing themselves fully to serving others. Their appointments have since taken them to Hornsby, Maitland, Dubbo, and now Tamworth, where they commenced as Corps Officers in March this year.
Lloyd and Sally provided an overview of the Salvation Army’s mission, tracing its origins back to William and Catherine Booth and their commitment to helping people break free from addiction and hardship. Today, the Salvos continue that mission by offering practical, compassionate support to those doing it tough.
In Tamworth Lloyd outlined this includes programs such as Doorways (supporting people into employment or recovery), the NILS (No Interest Loan Scheme), Salvo Connect vouchers for food and fuel, frozen meals, and plans for expanded community meals. The Christmas Appeal which assists around 150 families each year, and free shower, laundry, and bathroom facilities which are available for people experiencing homelessness. Salvos Stores also play a vital role in providing affordable clothing and essential items. Their focus remains simple but powerful - giving people a hand up and making a real difference in their lives.
Thanks to James Hindmarsh for the notes.
