The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal returns this weekend but with a twist.

Thousands of volunteers will be out and about doorknocking for the charity’s major fundraising event of the year.

And they’ll be armed with an incredibly powerful tool.

This year, volunteers will be carrying tap and go machines so those wanting to donate can use their credit card.

WATCH | Ben Fordham and Ross Greenwood give the machines a test run

Alan Jones speaks with Major Bruce Harmer about where donations will go.

“I always tell you to give your support to the Salvation Army,” says Alan.

“That way you know your money will get to those in need. “They are wonderful.”

Click PLAY below to hear the full interview

Who does the Red Shield Appeal help?

Using money raised through the Red Shield Appeal, across Australia, The Salvation Army provides*:

• Accommodation for over 2000 people per night
• Over 36,000 people assisted by homelessness services, by way of case management support
• Over 100,000 people assisted with hospitality, in-kind and personal assistance in disaster-affected situations by Salvation Army Emergency Services
• Support to over 14,000 people by Financial Counsellors (Moneycare)
• Over 27,000 significant contacts made by Chaplains
• Support to over 3,000 by Aged Care services