Almost $4.5 million was raised over the weekend that will help to fund vital services over the next 12 months.

The tally puts the Salvos well on their way to reaching their goal of $7.5 million for the doorknock, with volunteers still out collecting and other donations being processed.

The Red Shield Appeal campaign aims to raise a total of $73 million by the end of June.

The Salvation Army’s national secretary for communications Lieutenant-Colonel Neil Venables said the generosity was incredible to see.

“The Red Shield Appeal is the lifeblood of The Salvation Army, helping us keep the doors open to our many support services,” Lieutenant-Colonel Venables said.

“It ensures that we can continue to support the women and children who are fleeing domestic violence, the people trapped in drug and alcohol addiction, the youth who are sleeping on our streets, and so much more.

“Every day, the Salvos live, love and fight for the needs of our community. We can only do this because, year after year, Australians come together to give hope where it's needed most. So please, donate to the Red Shield Appeal, because no one should go at it alone.”

More than $2 million of the money raised came from NSW, with volunteers in the Central West part of a 70,000 strong outfit that doorknocked and collected donations from shopping centres and businesses.

The Salvation Army acknowledged the business community for their incredible support of this year’s appeal.

“Each year, the Australian business community rallies behind the Red Shield Appeal and we could not do this without their support. We would like to especially thank Westpac, JLL, Woolworths, Bendigo Bank, Community Sector Banking, Bunnings, and McDonald’s for their support,” he said.

It’s not too late to make a contribution. Donations can be made to the Red Shield Appeal by calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58), by visiting salvos.org.au or any Westpac Bank branch or Salvo Store.