PREPARING FOR BLESSINGS
By Tim Sell on Thursday, November 10th, 2011 |
The Salvation Army of Huntington County is expecting to set records for giving this year, both to and from the Army.
“We have experienced unprecedented growth with our Food Assistance Program. Over the past three years, we have more than doubled the number of households using The Salvation Army for food assistance.”
In March of this year, The Salvation Army changed its food distribution to a “self-shopping” system. This allowed for quicker service, allowing approximately 15 families per week to receive food. Volunteers verify a “fair share’ received by the client according to available items.
Additionally, Huntington County has had severe cutbacks in federal aid. County FEMA funds exceeded $35,000 in 2010. This years allocation to the county was less than $5,000, with The Salvation Army being trusted with $2,667 dollars for rent assistance, about than thirteen percent of last years funds.
“We are counting on our community like never before. With the leadership of the United Way, we with LOVE In the Name of Christ, other cooperating agencies and township trustees are communicating with each other to make every dollar count. The community can be confident that each year wiser and more informed decisions are being made with their donated resources.”
In addition to its regular locations for Red Kettle donations, The Salvation Army will be having two “roadblocks’ on November 19th and 26th from 10 AM to 2 PM. Interested groups and individuals able to volunteer for this additional opportunity are encouraged to contact The Salvation Army @ (260) 346-3485
This year’s goal is $50,000 for its Christmas Kettles Campaign. In previous years a total giving goal has been presented, confusing many. At the same time, giving through the kettles has been hovering around $40,000.
“If the amount of giving at the kettles is at or above what is requested, all other forms of giving tend to keep pace, so we will keep the goal simple”
Programs supported by your local Salvation Army are:
• Rent and utility assistance.
• Other assistance as needed for homelessness.
• Youth basketball leagues for grades 5 thru 12
• The Salvation Army LatchKey program which provides before and afterschool care to children in grades 1-5 in seven of the eight county elementary schools.
• Monthly programming for senior adults.
• Monthly and seasonal nursing home visitation to nearly 600 residents.
Captain Tim Sell is issuing an urgent plea for volunteers at the Red Kettles, especially those with instrumental or vocal musical talent. Indoor spots are available for woodwind and stringed instruments.
Individuals and groups wishing to volunteer can call 356-3485 to schedule times to ring bells for The Salvation Army. Available locations are still being contacted for official permission.
Donations may also be mailed to The Salvation Army, 1424 E. Market St. Huntington, IN 46750
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