For more than 30 years, The Salvation Army has worked alongside community partners to serve individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Stanislaus County. As the needs of our community continue to grow, we are evaluating how to sustain our services and make the greatest possible impact in the years ahead.

We want to keep our donors, community partners, and neighbors informed as these conversations progress. This page will serve as a central resource for updates about our shelter operations, ongoing programs, and future plans.

An Update on Our Shelter Operations

October 2026

The Salvation Army is currently working with the City of Modesto and Stanislaus County to explore a sustainable future for local shelter services.

Over the years, the cost of operating our low-barrier shelter facilities has increased significantly, while available government funding has not kept pace with the growing need. The Salvation Army has absorbed substantial operating expenses to maintain these essential services, including approximately $4 million in costs associated with the Berberian Shelter. Shelter operations reported a deficit of approximately $1.22 million at the end of 2025.

Continuing under the current funding structure would place increasing pressure on our ability to maintain the quality and stability of our other community programs.

One option under discussion is the potential purchase of our ACES facility and Berberian Shelter by the City of Modesto and Stanislaus County, with another organization assuming responsibility for shelter operations.

No final decision regarding this proposed transition has been announced. We remain in active discussions with local government partners and recognize the importance of continuity of services for individuals currently relying on these facilities.

We will share additional information as plans develop and decisions are confirmed.

The Salvation Army Is Here to Stay

While the future of our shelter operations is being evaluated, one thing remains unchanged: The Salvation Army is not leaving Stanislaus County.

We remain committed to supporting our neighbors through the Modesto Corps and our community programs, including:

  • Red Shield Community Center: Creating opportunities for children, youth, and families through recreation and community programming.

  • Food Warehouse and Social Services: Providing food assistance and essential resources to individuals and families facing hardship.

  • Youth and Senior Programs: Supporting meaningful connections, personal development, and community engagement.

  • Seasonal Assistance: Helping local families celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas through holiday meals, gifts, and other essential support.

  • Spiritual and Community Ministries: Offering fellowship, encouragement, and support to those who need it.

These programs remain an important part of our mission and our long-term commitment to the community.

Planning for the Future

Looking ahead, The Salvation Army is developing a long-term plan informed by a countywide needs assessment expected to begin in early 2027.

This process will help us better understand emerging community needs, evaluate our existing services, and identify where our resources can make the greatest difference.

Our goal is to build a sustainable future that allows us to continue serving individuals and families across Stanislaus County for generations to come.

Latest Updates

October 2026 | Shelter Operations and Community Programs

The Salvation Army has shared an update regarding ongoing discussions with the City of Modesto and Stanislaus County about the future of the ACES facility and Berberian Shelter.

Additional updates will be posted here as information becomes available.

Your Support Still Makes a Difference

As we consider the future of some of our services, our mission remains the same.

Every day, individuals and families throughout Stanislaus County turn to The Salvation Army for food, assistance, community, and encouragement. This holiday season, we will continue working to provide Thanksgiving and Christmas assistance to hundreds of local families and thousands of children and seniors.

Your generosity makes this work possible, and your continued partnership will help us serve our community well into the future.

[Support Our Work]

For questions regarding these updates or our ongoing programs, please contact The Salvation Army Modesto Corps.

This page will be updated as new information becomes available. Last updated: October 2026.