When you hear the words Salvation Army, you automatically think of Bell Ringing at Christmas, but they are so much more. About six months ago, a group of Peace Members visited our local Salvation Army to assist preparing meals for First Footing Homeless Shelter. They make lunch and dinner meals for the shelter 365 days of the week. These are made in their kitchen and delivered to the shelter. That day we saw how much they do for our community.
We were greeted in the kitchen by Major Leal with his apron on and his sleeves rolled up and right in the middle of preparing meals for the shelter. He does this while also, the pastor of the church, assessing the needs of everyone who comes in for help, delivering programs that provide food, shelter, clothing and financial assistance, and directing ministries. They have a small staff but most of their work is done with the help of volunteers.
The first thing I noticed is when a person comes in looking for help, the first thing they say is “are you hungry?” and immediately prepare a meal for them. Then they take them into an office and assist them with their problems. On Sundays they serve a full breakfast while preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ, they deliver sandwiches and pass out emergency kits to homeless people on the streets, and they have an emergency disaster vehicle and staff ready to go anywhere. On Thanksgiving and Christmas, they not only prepare the meals for First Footing, but spend a week preparing 300 meals for shut-ins
that are alone. Last year they provided 43,000 meals to food insecure people.
How can you help? Monetary gifts is always best as it can be used to purchase food, paper products, cooking supplies and maintaince upkeep. Another way is prepare meals, such as, soups, casseroles and/or salads that can feed 40 people. You can also host a food drive for pop top can foods,( such as fruit, vienna sausage, poptarts, etc.), hygiene care products, wash cloths, socks.
Sign up to bell ring here
