The Salvation Army Provides a Lifeline

As the cost of living continues to rise, millions of Americans are finding themselves caught in a financial bind. These are people who are working—often multiple part-time jobs—but still can't make ends meet. With wages lagging behind the prices of groceries, rent, utilities, and transportation, individuals and families are struggling to cover expenses.

Every day, The Salvation Army does its best to fill in the gaps. With some government programs stretched thin and inflation-resistant jobs hard to find, more people than ever are turning to The Salvation Army for help. Each location provides different services and programs that are tailored to meet the basic human needs of the community in which it resides.

The Salvation Army provides the following lifelines to people of all ages, without discrimination:

·       Alleviating hunger – This ranges from operating community food pantries to serving hot meals.

·       Emergency or transitional housing – Operating safe places for men, women and children to stay who are experiencing homelessness.

·       Recovery programs and services – Supporting individuals facing physical, emotional and spiritual challenges, including substance abuse.

·       Senior services – Helping older adults maintain their dignity and well-being as they age.

·       Youth services – Organizing after-school programs, camps, music lessons and activities where youth can safely grow, learn and develop important life skills.

·       Spiritual services –Providing compassionate guidance, prayer and support, so people can explore their faith and develop a deeper connection with God.

But The Salvation Army is starting to feel the financial squeeze lately, too. It relies heavily on donations, and as inflation goes up, many donors are unable to maintain their past levels of generosity. To offset the deficit, community members are invited to explore a variety of ways they can join in #DoingTheMostGood.

Community Support Is Vital

Just like individuals and for-profit businesses, The Salvation Army is susceptible to inflation, which negatively affects its budget, operation, and ability to fulfill its mission. Every location relies on specific financial resources and the generosity of volunteers to remain in operation. For this reason, many businesses, churches, organizations, and individuals choose to come alongside The Salvation Army and work together to help build a stronger community.

Ways to assist include:

·       Financial Donations – One-time gifts offer immediate support for specific projects or urgent needs, while monthly donations enable sustainable program planning. Both offer donors a way to contribute to specific causes they care about.

·       Volunteer - Share time and skills. Serve meals, tutor youth, plant/maintain a community garden, or assist with office tasks. Sometimes, this is the most valuable and most needed support.

·       Education/awareness –Share information and events on social media, organize local ways to support neighbors directly with food drive, job leads, and other resources.

·       In-Kind donations – Bring gently used items to a Salvation Army Thrift Store, shelf-stable items to the food pantry, or donate personal care items, paper products, furniture, home goods, or school and office supplies. Donate tangible services such as graphic design, maintenance and construction, hairstylist/barber, or transportation services.

·       Special projects – Organizing coworkers, a service/church group, or sports team to help with a specific event or goal is a good way to boost morale, develop skills and create a win-win scenario for everyone.

To create a society that thrives, not just survives, everyone needs to look out for one another. It’s time to get involved and be part of the solution. Learn more about The Salvation Army and find the location nearest you.