Salisbury, MD – May 5, 2021 – The Salvation Army in Salisbury, MD, is excited to celebrate National Salvation Army Week, May 10-16, 2021. Since 1913, The Salvation Army Lower Eastern Shore has faithfully and consistently worked to help those in need from our community. Working 365 days a year we provide assistance to individuals and families who may find themselves in crisis, shelter to those experiencing homelessness, food and meals to the hungry, and much more.
In 1954, the week of November 18-December 4 (now recognized in May) was declared by the United States Congress and proclaimed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to be the first National Salvation Army Week, as a reminder to Americans to give freely of themselves. In his speech, President Eisenhower said:
“Among Americans, The Salvation Army has long been a symbol of wholehearted dedication to the cause of human brotherhood. In time of war, the men and women of this organization have brought to those serving their country far from home, friendliness, and warm concern. In the quieter days of peace, their work has been a constant reminder to us all that each of us is neighbor and kin to all Americans. Giving freely of themselves, the men and women of The Salvation Army have won the respect of us all.”
Today, The Salvation Army is at work in 132 countries around the world. Here in the USA in 2020 the organization provided more than 155 million meals between March and September alone, 1.6 million nights of COVID shelter, 6.6 million food boxes, and emotional and spiritual care to 857,000 people. With more than 7,500 centers of operation in the U.S., The Salvation Army is uniquely positioned to meet needs in Jesus’ name, without discrimination – wherever it exists. Locally in 2020 we served over 15,000 people and served over 425,000 pounds of food to those in need.
On May 10 the canteen will be outside our Family Thrift Store from 11am to 1pm giving out hot dogs, chips and drink. You can also meet and talk to the Salisbury Salvation Army officers and staff about our programs. You will be able to register for energy assistance and youth sports. On Friday, May 14, we will have a food distribution starting at 11am.
“National Salvation Army Week presents a wonderful opportunity for us to let the community know more about the work of The Salvation Army in our community” said Capt. Matthew Trantham, of The Salvation Army. “The last year has been very challenging as we have all dealt with the ongoing pandemic. The Salvation Army has experienced heightened need during this time and has been privileged to support so many in our area. We want to recognize and celebrate the partners, supporters, and volunteers who make the ministry of the Army possible and invite everyone to join us as we celebrate National Salvation Army Week.”
For more information, or to make a donation, please call The Salvation Army of Salisbury, MD, at 410-749-7771 ext. 100 or visit us at 407 Oak Street, Salisbury, MD 21804, or online at https://salvationarmypotomac.org/salisbury/
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army of the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland has been operating since 1913. Serving Wicomico, Worcester, and Somerset Counties, it has sustained its operations financially through excellent stewardship of community resources that have been entrusted to us over the years. The COVID-19 pandemic has not been easy on our budget. We continue to experience unforeseen expenses with a shortage of individual and corporate donations from the public due to their own financial struggles.
Since 1865, The Salvation Army has preached the gospel of Jesus Christ and worked to meet human needs in his name without discrimination. Today, The Salvation Army serves in every state in the United States and more than 130 countries throughout the world. The Salvation Army has many programs that address social concerns in our community, which include utility and rent assistance, nutrition services, Christmas assistance, worship, disaster relief, and youth programming.