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Seasonal Programs and Assistance

The Salvation Army of Milwaukee County is dedicated to providing hope and practical support to families in need. Through a variety of community programs, we help children, individuals, and families overcome challenges and build brighter futures.

Backpacks and School Supplies

Every child deserves the chance to succeed. Our Backpacks and School Supplies Program ensures that students from select Milwaukee and Waukesha schools receive brand-new backpacks filled with the essentials they need for learning - giving them a strong start to the school year. Partnering with WISN 12, the annual Class Act Telethon helps provide hundreds of children across both counties with fully stocked backpacks and the tools to thrive in the classroom.

Coats for Kids

Our annual Coats for Kids distribution will take place on Friday, October 24 and Saturday, October 25, 2025. Families may choose a coat for each child present, along with hats and gloves (while supplies last).

  • Registration is required and will open on this page starting October 1, 2025.
  • This event is for children only (ages 17 and under, or 18 if still in high school).
  • Children must be present to receive a coat.

No child should have to face a Wisconsin winter without warmth. Through Coats for Kids, we provide new and gently used coats, hats, and winter gear to children across Milwaukee - helping them stay safe, warm, and ready to learn. This program is made possible thanks to community donations and our partnership with FOX6 News. Winter coats are collected at drop-off locations throughout the city and delivered to The Salvation Army, where dedicated volunteers sort and prepare them for cleaning - generously donated by ITU.

How You Can Help

  • Donate Coats: New or gently used children’s and adult sizes can be dropped off at Steinhafels, Feldco, or Salvation Army locations.
  • Donate Winter Accessories: New hats, mittens, and scarves are also needed.

Material Assistance

The Salvation Army Material Assistance Program provides support to clients in need, including food vouchers and thrift store vouchers. For other types of assistance - such as rent, utilities, or appliances (refrigerators, stoves, etc.) - please call 211, as we are unable to respond to these requests directly.

Assistance is available for individuals and families facing emergency expenses due to situations such as:

  • Illness
  • Death in the family
  • Job loss or unemployment
  • Other unexpected crises

How Assistance Is Determined

The Salvation Army evaluates requests based on:

  • Individual need and circumstances
  • Household income and expenses
  • Eligibility for public assistance programs
  • Efforts toward financial recovery
  • Availability of community resources
  • Funds available through The Salvation Army

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Emergency Services program, applicants must:

  • Be 18 years or older
  • Provide verification of identification, income, and financial need

How to Apply

To apply for assistance through the Material Assistance Program, please fill out our online application form.

Meal Assistance and Food Pantries

The Salvation Army operates three food pantries in Milwaukee County, ensuring families have access to nutritious meals. The pantries will provide a two to three-day supply of emergency food to neighborhood individuals and families who are hungry. Pantries are supported by various food drives and donations from the Hunger Task Force. 

In the summer, our Feed the Kids Program delivers thousands of meals directly to children in some of Milwaukee’s most underserved neighborhoods. 

Shelter and Housing Programs

Everyone deserves a safe place to call home. The Salvation Army of Milwaukee County offers several short-term and long-term housing programs that provide shelter, stability, and pathways to independence for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

  • Adult Rehabilitation Center: Houses men across the state who are struggling with chemical and alcohol addictions.
  • Booth Manor: A high quality, subsidized housing facility for older adults and the mobility impaired.
  • Emergency Lodge Homeless Shelter: Provides emergency shelter to homeless individuals and families with children.
  • ROOTS Supportive Permanent Housing: Provides stable housing and case management services to assist chronically homeless individuals with a disability.

Toy Shop

The Salvation Army enables parents to choose new, donated toys from the community. Selections are made according to each child’s age and gender, allowing parents to surprise their children on Christmas morning.