The Salvation Army Stands Alongside Communities During Pandemic

Atlanta, GA: COVID-19 continues to impact daily life around the globe but, with millions in need, The Salvation Army stands alongside them with persistent service. In the Southern Territory, that work takes on many forms and extends to many communities.

More than 120 individuals are currently living in The Salvation Army’s emergency shelter in Macon, Georgia. Social distancing practices are being implemented, including a change in how meals are administered. Shifts are in place to allow for at least six feet between individuals, including during meal times, and three meals per day are served. In addition, The Salvation Army is serving food for more than 50 individuals per day that are not staying in the shelter, with plans for continued service.

The Salvation Army of Brazos County, Texas (Bryan/College Station) collaborated with the City of Bryan to give away 1,000 lunches on Friday, April 17. Local restaurant employees served meals in a drive-thru setting, with all parties practicing appropriate social distancing and using masks and gloves for safety purposes. This was the second consecutive week for the initiative, with the potential for continuing service in similar fashion.

In Fort Myers, Florida, The Salvation Army delivered more than 2,100 pounds of food to residents of a senior living complex in the area. Many living in the complex have been unable to access food on their own for weeks, due to health challenges and transportation issues. The Salvation Army’s mobile feeding unit provided emergency food bags, filled with oatmeal, canned beans, rice, soup and non-perishable items, that should provide meals for a full week. Pantry service also increased from one day per week to three days per week in Fort Myers, with the aim to meet the accumulating need in the community.

Continuing a Blog Post written by Brad Rowland, Staff Writer, Southern Spirit Newspaper