As unemployment remains high and many people are still struggling, The Salvation Army is sounding an urgent call to Eastern Shore neighbors to respond generously to the needs of the less fortunate. The Army is asking for immediate donations of cash, non-perishable food, and volunteers to help with program service during the holidays.
The organization will be providing food baskets for 2,000 this year at the Youth Club gym on December the 22nd and 23rd as well as it ongoing assistance during November and December.
“We need $5,000 just to cover the costs of providing food to those in need on the Lower Eastern Shore this holiday season,” says Major Vic Tidman. “The number of families finding themselves in desperate financial straits continues to increase in our local communities. The need for compassionate support from the community is more essential than ever.”
“We know people have been seriously affected by the deep recession over the past few years, and we are grateful to generous friends who have provided faithful support for those struggling to make ends meet,” says Major Tidman. “Unfortunately, the need has not decreased, and the level of public support is just not keeping up. It is particularly sad for us to see the growing numbers of families with children who have lost their homes and are now needing our help.”
The economic situation has contributed to the drop in local donations too. In fact, some who have been generous supporters in the past are now coming to our doors in need of help themselves.
Many struggling individuals feel forgotten and disheartened as they approach the Holiday season, but The Salvation Army believes the community will once again step forward and help those who need it most. “We’ve been doing this work for over 100 years so we’re not going to turn away any deserving neighbor now,” says Major Tidman. “The Salvation Army plans on doing the most good we can with the gifts we receive to help those in the greatest need in our community. We urge our friends, those whose circumstances will allow, to dig deep this year to spread the spirit of Thanksgiving to those who are facing particularly hard times.”
To donate to The Salvation Army, please call 410.749.771, mail your gift to 407 Oak Street, Salisbury, Maryland, 21804, donate online at http://salarmyles.org, or Text Give to 410.202.0995.
