Dedicated to Service

“It is just something that is in my heart, to reach out to my people,” said Becky Ashley, a new Salvation Army volunteer for Lawrence County. After working in utility assistance through a community foundation for fourteen years, Becky started volunteering as the Lawrence County representative for The Salvation Army in March 2025. Since last spring she has been able to assist around 100 individuals and families in need.

One of the individuals who came to Becky was a middle-aged man named Paul who was going through chemotherapy treatment for cancer. Paul was trying his best to continue working but was unable to work full-time because of the rigorous treatment he was undergoing. The sudden reduction in income was especially difficult for Paul, who lived alone and relied on just his own wages to get by. By the time his chemotherapy treatments were completed, Paul had gotten behind on his bills and was at risk of having his power shut off.

Praying for a miracle, he reached out to The Salvation Army, where Becky was ready and eager to help. Funds were running low because it was August and Becky only had $1,800 to assist her county for the entire year. Becky was still determined to help Paul in his time of need so he could focus on his recovery. Using Salvation Army funds, she was able to cover Paul’s entire energy bill and keep his lights on at home.

Today, Paul’s prognosis is positive, and he hopes to be back at work full time soon. While Paul only needed one-time assistance because of a desperate situation, Becky has experienced the stories of many individuals who must rely on community assistance for survival year after year.

She recalled the first client she worked with after just starting with The Salvation Army, a mother with disabilities caring for two adult children who had disabilities, as well. Although they were receiving disability assistance, the checks were not enough to cover the rising costs of food, housing, utilities, and medical expenses. The woman relied on The Salvation Army as she faced lifelong struggles that she had no control over.

Another individual Becky has helped in the past few months is a woman with chronic illnesses, including asthma, that prevent her from being able to work. She had spoken to Becky about assistance a few years before, and was thrilled to see a familiar, uplifting, and friendly face when she reached out to The Salvation Army.

As part of her work before, and now her volunteer work, Becky has been able to build strong relationships with the vulnerable people in her community for fifteen years.

“I love helping people, and people really appreciate the help,” said Becky, “I always continue to be positive with them.” Becky’s willingness to dedicate her life to helping others, either full time or through volunteer work, means that individuals know they have come to a safe and loving space when they come into The Salvation Army of Lawrence County for assistance.