The Salvation Army’s ongoing commitment to aid families in need

JACKSON, Tenn. — The Salvation Army is committed to providing for those in need, but they need the continual support to complete their mission.

“Recently, we’ve had a spike in the amount of families that have been requesting some assistance so we do rental assistance and utility assistance and food assistance for families and seniors,” said Emily Rickett, the Corps Mission and Development Manager.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, The Salvation Army distributes food to 60 or more families.

Rickett stated that volunteers come and prepare bags during the week for families to collect and take home.

“During the Christmas time and then even in the months following Christmas, you see a spike in just general bills and then the utilities bills. With the really cold weather and things, people get behind,” said Rickett.

She stated that it’s always good to remember the mission statement.

To meet human needs in Jesus’s name without discrimination. And so as we get to approaching Easter, we’re talking about Jesus, we’re talking about his role in our lives, we’re talking about his sacrificial love for us and doing so, you know, Jesus was for the needy,” said Rickett.

Rickett stated that she is happy the community has helped with their food drive.

“We do spend about 1,000 dollars a month to order food to try to give away to our communities so any donations there are very helpful,” said Rickett.

The Salvation Army also distributes diapers to families with infants and toddlers.

They also have Teen Day, which gives teenagers the opportunity to play games or basketball outside.

But what stands out the most to her in what they’re doing?

“They know people love them and care about them. So monetary donations, even what may seem small to one person may keep someone in their house,” said Rickett.

The Salvation Army annually helps millions of Americans overcome poverty, addiction and economic hardships.

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