Texas Family Serves Together at The Salvation Army in Baton Rouge
Lori Cork | lori_cork@uss.salvationarmy.org
BATON ROUGE, LA (September 4, 2016) – One family of five from Katy, Texas wanted to do more than simply provide donations to flood victims in Louisiana. As a college student, Soo Molyneux lived in Baton Rouge for two semesters while completing an internship. She felt a connection to Baton Rouge and wanted to visit and check on a woman she lived with during that time.
While visiting the area, the family decided to reach out to agencies serving in the area to find the best place to volunteer together as a family. The Salvation Army invited them to serve at The Salvation Army’s Donation/Distribution Center, located at Cortana Mall in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
“We had a hard time finding a place for our family to serve together due to age restrictions. We have three children ranging in age from 11 to 15 and The Salvation Army was the only place that could accommodate us as a family,” said Mike Molyneux. “I just couldn’t believe the set-up here when we arrived, it’s quite impressive. We actually couldn’t tell who was in charge here because we see everyone here working so hard all day and just stepping right in and getting the job done.”
This is the first disaster for the Molyneux family and spent two days together working in the donation/distribution center sorting clothing, food, cleaning supplies and personal hygiene items. “I’ve enjoyed working here because it’s nice to know I’m doing something for the community. I’ve had fun sorting through the boxes and helping to shop for people that need help,” said Cathy Molyneux, age 11.
To date, 1,411 volunteers have served 10,292 volunteer hours with The Salvation Army to assist in the response to the historic flooding in Louisiana. Together, with the help of our volunteers, we will continue to serve the community as long as there is a need. The Disaster Relief Distribution Center, located at 9401 Cortana Place, will be open until at least October 1. The center will be open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army annually helps more than 30 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.