Posts

On the Road to Victory: New Orleans Mother of Six Finds Home Amid COVID-19

/in /by

Tyronika is a 29-year-old mother of six children between five months and 11 years of age. She was laid off from her job at a nursing facility right before COVID-19 hit her community. With the loss of income and no other form of financial support, Tyronika and her children experienced homelessness and turned to The Salvation Army New Orleans Corps for assistance.

Tyronika, along with her six children, entered the shelter in January 2020, without food or shelter, and having just the clothes on their backs. During her time with The Salvation Army, she received nutritional meals for her family, assistance with searching for a job, finding childcare, and locating a new home.

“I lost my job last September and was evicted from my home. The only person I had to help me was my mother. She provided for my family when she could, allowing my kids and myself to live with her, but it eventually put her in a financial bind as well,” Tyronika shared.

She stayed with her mother for a while but eventually needed to find a shelter for her family until she could become financially stable. Tyronika was scared when she arrived at the shelter because she didn’t know what to expect, but soon grew to enjoy her neighbors and the Army.

“Living in a shelter was something new to me. I didn’t know if I could do it, but I felt comfortable after a few days. I started getting motivation from people who didn’t know me from Adam or Eve. My social workers, Ms. Treshone and Ms. Jhana, and Major Debbie Hull, were always there to help me,” Tyronika shared.

“I connected with Ms. Jhana a lot. She always told me to pick my head up and that she was proud of me. Ms. Treshone always told me how strong I was and let me know that she was there to help me. Their daily smiles lifted my spirit and helped me want to take care of myself and get back on track,” Tyronika added.

 

“That’s why I fight hard.”

 

Tyronkia deals with chronic anxiety and depression, as well as PTSD from being hit by a car while crossing the street a few years ago. Growing up, she dealt with these issues alone, not understanding their origin. She has learned more about mental health and is in therapy to learn how to cope with her conditions. She found it hard to manage these issues while living in a shelter because she wasn’t surrounded by close friends or family to connect with personally. There were also limited activities due to COVID-19. However, with the help of her social workers, she was able to pull herself through the ups and downs and continue being strong for herself and her children.

“Depression is a big monster. One day you’re motivated, and the next day you don’t want to be bothered. Staying at The Salvation Army was a good experience for me. My social workers were always there with an open heart and an open mind. They never turned me down. Ms. Jhana and Ms. Treshone helped me with my kids and loved them as their own. If I could go back to the shelter and give them all a hug, I would. I love them. I look at them as my family,” Tyronika shared.

“Being in a shelter during coronavirus with children was terrifying. The thought of one of my children contracting the virus scared me. Thankfully, we were never around a lot of people in the shelter. There were rigorous regulations to inform people to limit their contact with children, so I felt confident that my children were safe at the shelter,” Tyronika added.

“Tyronika stayed in our Rapid Rehousing program apartments for two and a half months. I was blessed by her sweet attitude and fell in love with her children. We are so happy for Tyronika. She is a true success story,” shares Treshone Collor, New Orleans Corps Director of Social Services.

 

“I’m home now.”

 

Tyronika met with social workers regularly to check on the progress of finding a job and home. On May 25th, Collor secured permanent housing for Tyronika and her family. She is now working as a home healthcare provider.

“It’s taking me one day at a time to get myself back on track financially. I’m now able to provide for my kids. Being a young mother with six children is a lot, and providing for them is a major accomplishment,” Tyronika shared.

“I’m so thankful for my mother and The Salvation Army because they helped me through such a trying time in my life. You go through things, and you learn from it. I’m home now. I have a home. I’m doing better and I’m working again. I’m getting back into a normal routine,” Tyronika added.

Tyronika is just one of the many stories of success we share atTheSalvationArmy. Through our staff’s dedication to others, we can guide families to self-reliance and advancement. Find out ways you can get involved to assist The Salvation Army in helping other families like Tyronika’s.

Camp Hidden Lake: Backyard Edition

/in /by

Each summer, with the help of donors in the community, we send kids to our summer camp near Lexington, Mississippi. The Salvation Army’s 300 acre Camp Hidden Lake helps disadvantaged boys and girls in Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi open their eyes to a whole new world. Summer camp is much more than a vacation for these kids. Camp Hidden Lake teaches new skills, healthy attitudes, and high values. Long hot summer days, a dip in the pool, canoeing, star-filled nights, campfires, roasted marshmallows, pillow fights, cabin devotions, emblem work, seeing old friends, and making new ones. Expanding horizons and creating memories: That’s what camp is about, and this is what the kids are missing out on during summer 2020.

Camp Hidden Lake was canceled this year due to the novel coronavirus. Since so many of our corps are no longer able to host the Evangelism Campaigns, The Salvation Army Youth Department wanted to find a way to still get Jesus to kids throughout our division. This was done by providing “camp in a bag,” a modified camping experience. Camp Hidden Lake: Backyard Edition is a 3-day resource bag that provides a camping experience for 700 children at home, complete with all the items and directions they need for the daily activities.

Each day followed the following schedule:

  1. Morning Manna (Bible Story with questions)
  2. Daily Camping Experience
  3. Camp Craft
  4. Recreational Activity
  5. Daily Wrap up

This year’s camp theme is “Fearfully & Wonderfully Made,” with the scripture Psalm 139:14 being a focus in the daily “Morning Manna” readings and provided Bible stories. The focus will be on “making and creating” as the youth are encouraged to engage God’s creation and look at their ability to create. Each bag will have three packets for three days of the modified camping experience and a smores kit, complete with instructions on making the camping dessert via microwave. A postcard from Camp Hidden Lake and the Youth Department will be included in each bag as well. This resource will also allow for the children to earn an “Ecology Badge” in character building if they participate. Officers and service center staff are encouraged to use these bags to engage the youth in their localities and think outside the box on evangelism.

“The kids in our division come from all walks of life. You have kids whose parents have an internet connection, but many of our communities don’t have that capability. And even more so, there are still parents who have to work, so teens are home by themselves,” Captain Michael Good stated.

“Helping these kids is our ministry, so we’re trying to figure out how we can help them during this crisis. It also gives officers in our division the opportunity to think outside of the box and meet kids where they are. They get to go to the homes, shelters, and foster homes where these kids reside and give them Camp Hidden Lake,” Captain Good added.

Camp in a bag provides all materials with instructions for a three-day camping experience. Officers are encouraged to check in with the kids to check their progress. The campers learn everything from ecology, boating, camp crafts, and devotions so that this summer feels as close to any other summer at Camp Hidden Lake.

 

Camp Day #1

Morning Manna: Study of Creation (Genesis 1:1-25)

Camping Experience: Study of trees w/ leaf imprinting & study

Camp Craft: Birdhouse

Recreation: Nature Scavenger Hunt

 Camp Day #2

Morning Manna: Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9)

Camping Experience: Study of a plant’s life cycle w/”Grow Your Own” activity

Camp Craft: Suncatchers

Recreation: Miniature Boating Activity

Camp Day #3

Morning Manna: Study of Creation (Psalm 139:13-18)

Camping Experience: Study of Ecosystem’s w/”Make Your Own Ecosphere” activity

Camp Craft: Leather Bookmark Craft

Recreation: Sidewalk Chalk Games

“I’m excited for the kids to experience the science portion of camp. They’ll practice leaf imprinting. It’s the story of leaves and trees to feel like they’re truly at camp. The second day, the kids get to plant their seeds, and the material talks about the life cycle of a plant and what plants do for us. The last day is my favorite. They will be making an ecosphere. Each kid received a mini mason jar, and they can make an ecosphere. It’s a self-supporting ecosystem, and they won’t have to open the jar to feed the insects or clean it,” Captain Good shared.

One of the things that Captain Good and the Youth Department made sure of was the bags were reusable so that campers could keep them as “camp swag”. The bags are branded with the Camp Hidden Lake logo in hopes of the kids being able to bring them to camp next summer.

“I can imagine them coming to camp next year with their bags. Having camp swag at home is a cool feeling because it’s a sense of belonging and togetherness. Some of these kids come from rough home situations. We get to think about vacationing in New Orleans or Memphis, whereas the kids we serve with The Salvation Army don’t always get that chance. Vacation for them is Camp Hidden Lake. For many of these kids, camp is a week they don’t have to worry about life. It’s a week that they don’t have to worry about food. They don’t have to see their parents fighting. It’s a week where they don’t have to take care of their siblings. They can just be kids,” Captain Good shared.

“That’s one of the most frustrating parts of changes within my job in 2020. The kids don’t get that opportunity. We’re hoping that this backyard edition of the camp hidden lake will allow kids to feel like they are at camp,” Captain Good added.

 

Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter Visits Salvation Army Hurricane Laura Relief Operations

/in /by

Lake Charles, LA (September 16, 2020)— Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter, State Senator Ronnie Johns, and United Way of Southwest Louisiana President Denise Durel visited The Salvation Army’s Hurricane Laura incident command site on Tuesday. Mayor Hunter said he wanted to tour the operation to say thank you to The Salvation Army for all of the good work he’s witnessed the organization doing in his community since the storm.

“The Salvation Army was some of the first people that were on the ground here, helping right after the storm when it was so needed. I’m a local guy and work with the local affiliate, but you don’t quite appreciate the national organization until something like this happens. You have all these assets that you’re able to mobilize and get here,” said Hunter. “Thank you so much for what you’re doing,” he added.

The local Salvation Army facilities, including the home of Lake Charles corps officers, Lieutenants Thomas and LeAnna Marion, were severely damaged in the storm. But their focus remains on helping their community. “The Salvation Army of Southwest Louisiana greatly appreciates the support we get from our local leaders and Mayor Nic Hunter. He is always there to back us up when we respond,” said Lt. Thomas Marion.

To date, The Salvation Army has provided 293,954 meals in response to Hurricane Laura throughout affected areas of Louisiana and Texas. 210,814 of those meals were served in the Lake Charles area.  Services are ongoing in the Lake Charles area, where approximately 49,000 are still without power.

The best way to support the disaster work of The Salvation Army is by making a financial donation at www.helpsalvationarmy.org or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY. For the latest emergency disaster services news from The Salvation Army, please go to www.disaster.salvationarmyusa.org and watch for regular updates on our social media pages at www.facebook.com/LakeCharlesCorps, www.facebook.com/salarmyalm/ and www.twitter.com/salarmyalm.

As natural disasters can increase mental stress, The Salvation Army’s Emotional & Spiritual Care HOPEline remains available. Anyone needing a caring listener – whether because of natural disaster, COVID-19, or the stress of life in general – can call 844-458-HOPE (4673) for support. HOPEline hours are 8 AM to 11 PM CDT, 7 days a week.

About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army annually helps more than 23 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at 7,600 centers of operation around the country. In the first-ever listing of “America’s Favorite Charities” by The Chronicle of Philanthropy, The Salvation Army ranked as the country’s largest privately funded, direct-service nonprofit. For more information, visit www.SalvationArmyUSA.org. Follow us on Twitter @SalvationArmyUS and #DoingTheMostGood.

Salvation Army Remembers 9/11 Amid Hurricane Laura Relief

/in /by

Lake Charles, LA (September 12, 2020)—As The Salvation Army continues to serve Hurricane Laura ravaged Lake Charles, the significance of yesterday’s date, 9/11, was remembered. In the daily morning canteen meeting, there was recognition of former military and first-responders who are currently serving on canteen crews, and a moment of silence was observed in remembrance of the events of that terrible day 19 years ago.

The day was especially meaningful for one Salvation Army volunteer, retired Army Major Ell White, who is currently serving on a Salvation Army canteen crew providing Hurricane Laura relief in the form of hot meals served daily in DeQuincy, Louisiana. “This day, being the 19th anniversary of 9/11, that shook up a lot of families in the military because that started a continuing trend of training, deploying, training, deploying, and during that time we lost a lot of good men and women. So, coming here and serving with The Salvation Army, helping individuals that are in a vulnerable situation, was a no-brainer,” said White, who makes it a point to wear his fatigues when he serves, even through the oppressive heat.

White says that God told him to get involved with The Salvation Army, and specifically with Lt. Bryan Farrington, who is the corps officer of The Salvation Army Montgomery, Alabama Corps, and is currently serving as Operations Chief for The Salvation Army’s Hurricane Laura relief efforts in Lake Charles. “I told him the vision God gave me about working with disaster and working disaster areas, how I worked with human trafficking victims and my military background. I told him I have a whole wealth of experience and knowledge and a skill set that I’ll be willing to share by volunteering my services,” said White. “Ever since then, we have been the best of friends. Doing things in the community like feeding the homeless in Montgomery and doing various projects together,” he continued.

White says the purpose of his service here is to glorify God. “Some people have come through here and been a little depressed, but when they leave, you give them a different spin and give them a little hope,” said White. “Yesterday was a powerful day because a couple of families came and asked me to pray for them. Even though I’m dressed like a soldier and I look like a soldier, minus the beard and locks, of course, and that was a wonderful thing. Just to know that although I look like a soldier they knew I was a man of God,” he continued.

Ell White wants people in the rest of the country to be aware of the depth of pain and suffering that people are dealing with in the wake of Hurricane Laura, and that The Salvation Army is here to help ease that pain. “I was talking to one lady yesterday and she lost her husband to COVID-19 right as Hurricane Laura was happening. To lose your husband and then go through Hurricane Laura,” White said. “Then, I talked to another family, and they lost their father right as Hurricane Laura hit. It’s like they almost want to give up. And I’m telling them, no, don’t give up. God’s going to pull you through this, because if He saw you through the storm, He’s going to see you through this storm, too. But don’t you give up,” he continued.

As natural disasters can increase mental stress, The Salvation Army’s Emotional & Spiritual Care HOPEline remains available. Anyone needing a caring listener – whether because of natural disaster, COVID-19, or the stress of life in general – can call 844-458-HOPE (4673) for support. HOPEline hours are 8 AM to 11 PM CDT, 7 days a week.

The best way to support the disaster work of The Salvation Army is by making a financial donation at www.helpsalvationarmy.org or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY. For the latest emergency disaster services news from The Salvation Army, please go to www.disaster.salvationarmyusa.org and watch for regular updates on our social media pages at www.facebook.com/LakeCharlesCorps, www.facebook.com/salarmyalm/ and www.twitter.com/salarmyalm.

 

About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army annually helps more than 23 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at 7,600 centers of operation around the country. In the first-ever listing of “America’s Favorite Charities” by The Chronicle of Philanthropy, The Salvation Army ranked as the country’s largest privately funded, direct-service nonprofit. For more information, visit www.SalvationArmyUSA.org. Follow us on Twitter @SalvationArmyUS and #DoingTheMostGood.

Lake Charles Community Joins The Salvation Army in Hurricane Laura Relief

/in /by

Lake Charles (September 6, 2020) – The Salvation Army has been on the ground in Lake Charles for over a week now, serving those affected by Hurricane Laura. In turn, many Lake Charles residents have found ways to thank and care for these tireless Salvation Army staff and volunteers.

One canteen worker, Bianca Mosley-Greene, parks her canteen near a convenience store every day. She and her partner have several work crews who regularly come for lunches. One crew leader, stating he just wanted them to know they are appreciated, has started bringing them both a red bull in the morning to keep up their energy.

Another Salvation Army truck driver, Denise Rembert, received permission to set up each day outside a house in a particularly hard-hit neighborhood. In addition to allowing the truck to park in their yard, the owners come out each evening, after donning masks and gloves, and help serve meals. They also load up meals to distribute to neighbors unable to come to the site.

Ms. Mary Dejeam has lived in Lake Charles for over 50 years. Despite extensive damage to her house and vehicles, her cheerful spirit cannot be vanquished. When Salvation Army volunteers brought her cleaning supplies and water, she wound up ministering to them. “When you serve God,” Ms. Mary said, “You give. And even when you’re tired, God is not going to leave you.”

Other community members have given financially at the Lake Charles Command Center. “We’ve seen you out in the community,” said one such donor, who wished to remain anonymous. “And we wanted to give back and help with what The Salvation Army is doing here.”

The Lake Charles community remains resilient in the face of extreme devastation. The Salvation Army will remain by their side, partners in a recovery effort, determined to see it through.

About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army annually helps more than 23 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at 7,600 centers of operation around the country. In the first-ever listing of “America’s Favorite Charities” by The Chronicle of Philanthropy, The Salvation Army ranked as the country’s largest privately funded, direct-service nonprofit. For more information, visit www.SalvationArmyUSA.org. Follow us on Twitter @SalvationArmyUS and #DoingTheMostGood.

‘Sometimes Hope Looks like a Can of Formula’ – The Salvation Army Continues Hurricane Laura Relief Efforts in Lake Charles

/in /by

Lake Charles, LA (August 31, 2020) – Liz Chattin has truly embraced the motto of The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services. “Hope is on the Way”. While serving on a canteen truck, distributing food in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Liz met the Aleman family. Mike Aleman and Isabel Ledesma are both deaf, and their baby, Lia, is severely allergic to dairy. Without transportation and with no stores yet open within walking distance, they were desperate to find formula for Lia.

Liz was able to find diapers and wipes and a baby hygiene kit in The Salvation Army warehouse, and she made it her personal mission to find formula for Lia. With none available locally, she was able to coordinate with a Salvation Army officer to have soy formula brought from Texas.

“This is my first disaster deployment,” said Liz. “I thought I was prepared, but I wasn’t. It just hit me so hard to find this community that felt abandoned. We tried to find everything they needed. I work with children and babies every day at home. I just had to find this family some soy formula.”

Mike and Isabel were ecstatic to receive the baby supplies.  “Thank you,” they said over and over again, “Just….thank you.” For this family, hope looked like food for their baby, and The Salvation Army will continue to provide hope to everyone affected by Hurricane Laura.

About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army annually helps more than 23 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at 7,600 centers of operation around the country. In the first-ever listing of “America’s Favorite Charities” by The Chronicle of Philanthropy, The Salvation Army ranked as the country’s largest privately funded, direct-service nonprofit. For more information, visit www.SalvationArmyUSA.org. Follow us on Twitter @SalvationArmyUS and #DoingTheMostGood.

The Salvation Army Continues Hurricane Laura Relief Efforts in Lake Charles, LA

/in /by

Lake Charles, LA (September 1, 2020) – Today, The Salvation Army began distribution of cleaning kits to help those affected by Hurricane Laura. These buckets containing masks, bleach, gloves, scrub brushes, and assorted cleaning supplies were met with joy by residents of Lake Charles.

One such resident was Lillian Bryant. After describing water damage caused by a tree through her roof, she said, “I’m so grateful to have these supplies. My house has such an odor right now.” Bryant chuckled and continued, “My little girl just came home this morning from evacuating with relatives. She walked in and said, ‘Mommy, it STINKS in here.’” For many in Lake Charles, cleaning supplies will be one more small step toward recovery.

In addition to cleaning kits, The Salvation Army continues to provide meals as much of the city remains without power or drinkable water. Food is still hard to come by for many residents without vehicles. Many smaller local stores have yet to open. “I ate a few crackers last night and a few Cheetos today,” said Dorothy Mills. “A hot meal is just such a blessing.”

Ruth Kennedy was overjoyed to see The Salvation Army canteen. A lifelong supporter, Ruth remembers vividly the night her house burned down when she was a teenager. “The very next day The Salvation Army was there. I never forgot, and I donate whenever I have something to spare.”

The Salvation Army is committed to bring hope by meeting spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of those affected by Hurricane Laura as long as necessary. Through August 31, The Salvation Army has provided the following in Lake Charles:

  • 26,146 Prepared Meals
  • 24,891 Drinks
  • 17,257 Snacks

About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army annually helps more than 23 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at 7,600 centers of operation around the country. In the first-ever listing of “America’s Favorite Charities” by The Chronicle of Philanthropy, The Salvation Army ranked as the country’s largest privately funded, direct-service nonprofit. For more information, visit www.SalvationArmyUSA.org. Follow us on Twitter @SalvationArmyUS and #DoingTheMostGood.

Loving Thy Neighbor in Lake Charles, LA

/in /by

Lake Charles, LA (August 30, 2020) – If you are searching for examples of people loving their neighbor as themselves, look no further than South Louisiana. Residents of Lake Charles, Louisiana are going above and beyond to take care of each other just days after Hurricane Laura decimated their entire region. With no power and no water, recourses are hard to come by, but many communities are pooling together to help their neighbors.

One man, Darcy Jones, owns a large generator and has been running it non-stop at his house. He has continued to supply his neighborhood with water and ice as well as a place to stop by and cool off. In return, some of his neighbors have taken it upon themselves to clean the debris out of his yard and help keep the street clear for people to get in. “We are all just doing whatever small part we can to get through this,” said Jones, a native of Wisconsin who has only lived in Louisiana a brief time.

Another group of New Orleans residents spent their weekend distributing water and masks on their own dime. They wanted no recognition but stated they could not sit around and not help in the small ways available to them.

One small business, Peggy’s Superette, has been offering their parking lot as a location for The Salvation Army canteens to provide meal service. Today the owner, Judy Nguyen, partnered with The Salvation army to provide food to her neighbors. Their store cooked and distributed 2,500 servings of boudin, turkey wings, and sausage alongside a Salvation Army canteen providing drinks, snacks, and breakfast boxes. “This community has supported our store and our family for 20 years,” said Nguyen, “Now, it’s our turn to support them.”

The Salvation Army will join these neighbors and continue their efforts on the ground in Lake Charles as long as the need continues.

As natural disasters can increase mental stress, The Salvation Army’s Emotional & Spiritual Care HOPEline remains available. Anyone needing a caring listener – whether because of natural disaster, COVID-19, or the stress of life in general – can call 844-458-HOPE (4673) for support. HOPEline hours are 8 AM to 11 PM CDT, 7 days a week. For the latest emergency disaster services news from The Salvation Army, follow the social feed on Twitter at @salarmyeds or visit disaster.salvationarmyusa.org. To donate to The Salvation Army’s disaster relief efforts, visit HelpSalvationArmy.org.

 

When Neighbors Become Family in Lake Charles, LA

/in /by

Lake Charles, LA (August 31, 2020) – Linda Drounette remembers vividly the fear of riding out Hurricane Laura in her apartment. “I just sat there listening to the wind whistling, trees falling, so many things crashing.” When it was over, Linda and her neighbors were left with no resources. The manager of the complex had left before the storm and has not returned. With no cell service and no options for charging cell phones, there was no way to call for help.

Linda cried when relaying her experience. “We are just so happy to see The Salvation Army here. We were so scared, and we don’t know what to do.” Linda’s daughter, Jayla August, and her granddaughter, Lachaunte August, have been checking in to make sure Linda is ok.

Jayla has become the de facto leader of this group of residents, banding together to survive. She has a car that is too damaged to drive, but it will still crank. She has been sharing with her neighbors to give them a place to charge phones and other necessary devices.

Despite a large Haitian population that does not speak English and several deaf families with limited abilities to communicate, the neighbors have become a family of sorts. As the canteens pulled in, residents were quick to tell Salvation Army staff where other neighbors who could not walk far lived and where quick to take only what they needed to ensure there was enough for others.

“Much of the property is unlivable,” said Jayla. “We have all moved in with each other and combined as much as possible.” The residents grilled all of the food out of their kitchens the first few days and shared the little they had to make enough for everyone. “We have been finding most of what we need,” Jayla continued, “But food is getting impossible to find now. Stores aren’t open even for those who have money. Having hot meals brought to us was such a blessing.”

As natural disasters can increase mental stress, The Salvation Army’s Emotional & Spiritual Care HOPEline remains available. Anyone needing a caring listener – whether because of natural disaster, COVID-19, or the stress of life in general – can call 844-458-HOPE (4673) for support. HOPEline hours are 8 AM to 11 PM CDT, 7 days a week. For the latest emergency disaster services news from The Salvation Army, follow the social feed on Twitter at @salarmyeds or visit disaster.salvationarmyusa.org. To donate to The Salvation Army’s disaster relief efforts, visit HelpSalvationArmy.org.

Blessings and Perseverance with Seniors Amid COVID-19

/in /by

Coined “Baskets of Blessings,” baskets filled with gloves, masks, sanitizer, a Bible study book, and chocolates were delivered to the homes of seniors and members of The Salvation Army Shreveport Corps’ Women’s Ministry. Distributing the baskets was the Army’s way of staying in touch with church members and reassuring them that they are cared for and loved while also practicing social distancing.

Virginia Fernandez-Schalewski, a member of the women’s ministry for over ten years, appreciates the basket of goods and says it helps her to feel more protected while running errands.

“I would like to thank The Salvation Army for the gloves, face mask, and candy. I carry the sanitizer with me everywhere I go,” shared Fernandez-Schalewski.

Retired Salvation Army officer, Major Patricia Johnson, was also one of the women who received a “basket of blessings” and was grateful for the added resources to her and her family.

Major Patricia Johnson, former Salvation Army Corps Officer

“I appreciate the gifts and The Salvation Army for thinking of me. You can’t always find these things when you need them, so I’m grateful for the tissues and hand sanitizer,” Major Johnson stated.

“I enjoy the Army’s programs. I was raised in the Army. My parents were very active at the Corps. I plan to join the Shreveport Corps in assisting the Boys and Girls Club once the pandemic is more under control,” Major Johnson added.

Major Johnson and Lieutenant Tamarique Ellis know each other from previous appointments in Atlanta. Major Johnson offered advice to Lieutenant Ellis early in her career as a Salvation Army officer. Nearly 20 years later, they live in Shreveport, Louisiana, and are still involved with the Army.

“Time is one circle. It comes back around. Major Johnson blessed me as a young soldier in Atlanta, and now we’re both in Shreveport and keep in touch,” Lieutenant Ellis shared.

“I just love my Army and want to give back, despite my losses and time of mourning.”

Although the Army is continuing to serve members of its community during the coronavirus pandemic, the past few months of self-isolation have been hard for some and even harder for others. Patsy Wallace, a member of the Shreveport Corps’ senior’s ministry, lost both of her daughters during self-isolation due to ongoing health issues and the coronavirus. Through all of this, she has still kept the Army in mind and has donated what she can to assist the Shreveport Corps. She regularly visits the Corps for the senior’s ministry and weekly meals, which has only been offered drive-thru style since the start of COVID-19. Due to the loss of her daughters, Wallace has been unable to travel, so Lieutenants Ellis brought lunch, flowers, a handmade vase, and a handmade necklace designed by the Ellis’ children to Ms. Wallace at her home. While receiving her gifts, Wallace offered a gift of her own to the Army.

“Ms. Patsy has given us a financial donation from her heart. In all her suffering, she says she has meant to bless us. Her love and care for others and the ministry in her time of bereavement is so wonderful. Ms. Patsy is a blessing to the Army. The Lord is with her,” Lieutenant Ellis stated.

Wallace has been a member of The Salvation Army Women’s Ministry for over 20 years and also participates in the senior’s ministry. She goes above and beyond for the Army. Just last December, she took the initiative to volunteer to help organize Angel Tree and tended the tables throughout the fundraiser’s duration.

“I just love my Army and want to give back, despite my losses and time of mourning,” Patsy Wallace shared.

Lieutenant Ellis says members of the senior’s ministry keep in touch with one another via phone calls. The Corps checks in with Wallace and other seniors weekly to see how they are doing, whether it be a phone call or driving by their homes to wave and chat from a safe distance.

“We are a family. We see that family spirit in our corps, from mothers taking care of kids, to the senior’s ministry checking in on each other through coronavirus. It’s beautiful,” Lieutenant Ellis shared.

“Seniors would come and sit and encourage each other daily before the pandemic, so we are staying in touch with them to let them know that we are thinking of them and praying for them. They are praying for us as well. We like to encourage seniors and remind them that they have a presence and a place in this world. If society takes time to lift both of our vulnerable populations, the children and the seniors, we can learn so much from them,” added Lieutenant Ellis.

Greenwood Corps: COVID-19 Has Changed The Way We Do Ministry

/in /by

The Greenwood Corps Thrift Store has reopened for the first time since April when the Mississippi Shelter in Place order went into effect. All customers are limited to 20-minute shopping sessions and children are not allowed in the store at this time. Though the thrift store was closed due to state orders, the corps continued all social services, including financial assistance with utilities, rent, hotel rooms for homeless clients, and groceries. All social service appointments are conducted via phone Monday-Friday between 10 AM-3 PM.

“Our customers are more like family. They will mingle and talk, so we had to limit the shopping time so that everyone had a chance to shop,” laughed Captain Keisha McMullin, Greenwood Corps Officer.

Lt. Jason McMullin showing appreciation at City Hall on National Donut Day

“Because of all the stipulations with COVID-19, I felt like we weren’t able to do everything we wanted to do. I wanted to thank all our first responders and frontline workers personally, but we couldn’t do that. Even as we went to the hospital, a representative met us outside. She felt the same way we were feeling. We’ve missed human interaction,” Captain McMullin explained.
The corps recently celebrated National Salvation Army Week by delivering cakes, balloons, and a card to the Greenwood Leflore Hospital, Greenwood Police Department, and Greenwood Fire Department. Disinfectant kits were distributed to families, community youth received snack bags, and balloons and donuts were delivered to Mayor Carolyn McAdams. The corps also gave War Cry magazine’s, cards, coloring sheets, and word puzzles to one of the local nursing homes.

Captain McMullin says not being able to shake hands and hug the people who support The Salvation Army and the Greenwood community has been difficult. Still, she took this opportunity to become more creative and do everything she could to show the Army’s appreciation.

 

“This is the way ministry was meant to be.”

 

The Greenwood Corps makes deliveries to families throughout the area every week. Captains McMullin recently met a new family while out making their routine dropoffs. They gave them “happy bags” (bags filled with snacks, puzzles, and cleaning supplies) and the family was so touched that they agreed to visit the thrift store once reopened to say hello to the McMullins.

“I thanked God for that moment and let the family know that we will be back to visit once the pandemic is under control. This is the same neighborhood where a lot of our youth live. We already have plans to take our ministry into that community. We’ve planned to host block parties and gatherings on Fridays to keep the kids interested and to feed the community. That moment was a great introduction to what we are trying to do once the pandemic is over. It’s often hard to successfully reach out to all of the kids in that community, so we’ve decided to take our ministry to them so that they are more aware of the Army. We also have a group where all of the kids in our youth ministry can stay in touch with each other via text messaging,” Captain McMullin shared.

“This is the way ministry was meant to be. It wasn’t meant to be confined between four walls. It was meant to be creative and innovative. I think that this pandemic has pushed us as pastors and ministers to think outside of the box. It has stretched us, it has caused us to think outside of the four walls, and has helped us to be more creative with our ministry,” Captain McMullin added.

Traveling throughout Greenwood’s neighborhoods to deliver “happy bags” to the community is something that Captain McMullin has truly enjoyed during the pandemic. It has challenged her to be more inventive and resourceful and has helped her to not focus on the negative aspects of these times.

“To be able to find a way to spread the gospel and spread God’s love amid such a dark time has been a blessing for me. Sometimes I can be a sponge and absorb the emotions and anxieties of others, so I deal with the worries and stresses of their situations. I had to get myself to a place where I’m like, ‘Ok now Lord, I know you told me that I’m not supposed to be anxious for anything,’ so I’ve been pressing in like never before. As a pastor, I know that you are going to carry the weight of your people, but it’s been like never before,” Captain McMullin shared.

“One client has a master’s degree and has never had to ask for help. She is struggling to take care of her family, and can’t get unemployment. I let her know that it was alright to receive help and that we’re all going to need somebody at some point in our lives. To hear her on the other end, rejoicing and thanking Jesus for providing for her family brought me so much joy. It’s those moments that remind me that I’m at the right place at the right time. All of the anxieties that I’m feeling from hearing clients’ stories are well worth it, and God is using me to help someone else. That’s what keeps me going,” Captain McMullin added.

A New Kind of Ministry

Since the start of the pandemic, the Greenwood Corps drops off ministry packets every Sunday and holds church service via a phone conference call. The corps delivers “church in a bag” on Sundays when a live service will not be held. Church in a bag includes a devotion, a list of songs that church members can search on YouTube for worship, games, prizes for the games, activities, and crafts.

“We’re being as creative as we can to keep this going. Everything has shut down, but we have to keep on serving. The enemy did not win with this one,” Captain McMullin shared.

The Greenwood Corps also delivers groceries to families in need and always includes a game for the children. Before the pandemic, the officers had plans to take members of the youth program to the Biloxi Kroc Center. That field trip has been postponed until a safer time to travel, so weekly activity packets for youth members include different ways for them to earn points for treats during that trip.

 

 

Biloxi Kroc Center Ministry Feeds Seniors Amid COVID-19

/in /by

The Salvation Army Kroc Center of the Mississippi Gulf Coast began a meal delivery ministry for seniors at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some are unable to gather food themselves, whether it’s due to a physical disability, illness, or lack of a vehicle. Hence, officers and staff administer meals and offer encouragement to seniors throughout the Gulf Coast area. It’s a beautiful experience for the seniors as well as the ministry team. Some have even come to know one another on a first-name basis.

“Many of the seniors offer us words of encouragement as well. They say, ‘We thank God for what you do. We appreciate you,’ and that inspires us to continue serving our seniors. We need to be there for our vulnerable adults,” stated Lieutenant Sonya Smith.

“Our ministry team has a huge heart for seniors. We wanted to find a way not only to feed them spiritually as well,” Lieutenant Smith added.

 

“People are connecting more than ever over kind words, letters in the mail, and in my case, a meal.”

 

The weather was terrible on the coast one day, but it didn’t stop the meal delivery ministry because they knew there were seniors out there waiting for their doorbells to ring.

“I asked God to find a way for us to deliver the meals safely, and what do you know, it stopped raining right around lunchtime. There was not a drop,” Lieutenant Smith stated.

The ministry has recently started delivering meals to a woman who is in dialysis. Lieutenant Smith is aware of the woman’s treatment schedule, so she tries arriving when she knows the woman will be home and settled. One day Lieutenant Smith arrived at the same time as the bus that transports the woman to and from her appointments. Lieutenant Smith waited for her to get settled. When she rang the doorbell, she was greeted with a “Come in sweetie.”

“When I rang the doorbell, and she said that, it felt like whatever I was going through was just lifted. It was so sweet. She was sitting there, waiting on her lunch. I’d had a rough morning, but I knew I needed to push on because someone was out there waiting on a meal. This is why we do what we do. There may be issues with the economy, there’s a virus spreading, and people are dying, but God is still good,” Lieutenant Smith shared.

“I went back to my car and just sat there and was filled with joy. I asked God to forgive me for complaining in a moment just because I was having a rough morning. This woman is going through dialysis and is one of the most vulnerable, yet still giving God glory. It’s the little things,” added Lieutenant Smith.

“Many spiritual exchanges are happening, and people are missing it because we’re focused on this pandemic. People are connecting more than ever over kind words, letters in the mail, and in my case, a meal. It was an exchange between one generation to the next,” stated Lieutenant Smith.

“We’re looking for these huge blessings during this pandemic, and God is telling us to look at the small things. He is allowing this pandemic to bring us together in compassion. I had a spiritual exchange with this woman that she doesn’t even know she’s given me. I gave her a meal, and she gave me gratitude. That exchange reminded me of why we do what we do. I put my mask on, and I go out there, and I’m going to be a blessing. I never think about someone else being a blessing to me. I’m thankful for that. Those are the things I hold on to,” Lieutenant Smith added.

Meals are delivered Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to seniors throughout the Biloxi community. Services will continue throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Contact the Biloxi Kroc Center to sign up for meal deliveries.