Basic Needs

The Salvation Army helps individuals and families meet basic needs such as food, clothing, shelter, and household essentials. Our staff also provide guidance and support to those seeking assistance.  

When funding allows, we may also offer furniture, household goods, and hygiene items.

Services have eligibility requirements and are available by appointment.

Christmas Toy Shop

Families or individuals in need of Christmas gifts for children ages 15 and under may sign up at The Salvation Army, 1901 Washington Ave. Racine.

Eligibility Requirements:

• You must apply in person 
• You must be a resident of Racine County
• Toys are for children ages 15 and younger
• You must bring proof that you are the parent/guardian
• You must bring a Picture ID or a Driver’s License of a parent/guardian
• Each child must have one of the following: a Birth Certificate, footprints from the hospital or an immunization record
• All documents must list the parents’ names

 2025 Registration Information TBA

Coats for Kids

We partner with RUSD to provide warm coats, hats, gloves, and scarves for school-aged children. Parents can request a coat through their child’s school social worker.  

Coats will be delivered to the social worker for distribution.  

For children who are not yet school age, coats may be requested directly from our office.  

To request a coat, please call (262) 632-3147.

Food Pantry

The Salvation Army Food Pantry is open on Wednesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., to the first 30 families each day.  

What do I need to provide to receive food?      

• Photo ID for all adults ( No Social Security Cards or Forward Cards can be accepted as identification).
• Children's birth certification or immunization paperwork    
• Proof of Address  

Healthy Kids Diner

Recognizing the importance of nutritious meals for school-age children, The Salvation Army of Racine launched the Healthy Kids Diner in May 2017. The program provides hot, healthy dinners to children in our community, addressing the gap many face - especially during summer months when free and reduced-price school lunches are less accessible.

Each year, the Healthy Kids’ Diner serves approximately 1,300 meals to local children.

This program not only ensures children receive the nutrition they need but also supports parents who may struggle to provide evening meals. Meeting children’s nutritional needs remains the heart of this program and the key to its continued success.

Hours and Locations:

Monday - Friday:

• 3:00 p.m. -  3:45 p.m
  • 16th Street COP House, 1900 16th Street
  • Geneva Street COP House, 1140 Geneva Street
• 4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.
  • Mead St. COP House, 2237 Mead St.  
  • Villa St. COP House, 1146 Villa St. Racine

All meals meet the USDA’s recommended nutrition guidelines for children and include both fruits and vegetables. Meals are available to school-age children and must be eaten on site, as we are unable to provide to-go meals.  

This program is made possible through the support of CACFP, the Racine Community Foundation, and generous community donors. Together, we are able to provide vital nutrition to children in need throughout Racine.  

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Kids Weekend Food Sack Program

We provide weekly food sacks to RUSD students who are facing serious situations and need extra nutrition. Students are identified by their school’s social worker. Each week, we distribute nearly 450 sacks, with each one containing two entrée items, two breakfast items, and two snacks.

Pathway of Hope

We offer holistic, strengths-based case management for families with children who want to take steps toward breaking the cycle of crisis and achieving greater stability. Families work closely with a case manager and ministry staff to create an action plan, build on their strengths, track progress, and receive encouragement to reach their goals.

Questions?

Contact our office at (262) 632-3147 to learn more.