The Salvation Army has its roots in London in 1865. A Methodist minister, William Booth, and his wife Catherine founded it as the East London Christian Mission. It was formed not only to feed the hungry and clothe those in need, but also to put into action spiritual faith where there was emptiness. William preached on the streets in the poverty-stricken areas of London's "East End" where people were unlikely because of their poverty to attend traditional church services. He raised a tent in the Quaker cemetery so the homeless, the poor, and practicing alcoholics could just show up and hear his message of salvation for all.
In 1878, it was renamed the Salvation Army, drawing inspiration from a military structure to fight poverty and spiritual indifference. Because of the military's ideals, William Booth was called the General, and the members were "officers" and "recruits". The organization became known for its holistic approach to feeding the needs of the whole person.... food and toiletries, and religious ministry, hence Salvation.
In 1880, the movement came to the United States, and in 1882, migrated to Canada. It is now recognized all over the world as an organization to raise money, food, and to provide shelter to those in need.
Catherine Booth was called the "Army Mother" and was instrumental in establishing the theology, including the promotion of women in the ministry. The organization is well known for its lack of judging people and non-discrimination in all areas of service of and to all.
Dodge County Salvation Army was started in 2019. Their big fundraiser is the Bell Ringing in November through December. This collection is what funds the whole year, so if you see them out ringing the bell, please give what you can to help your neighbors in need. The Advisory board consists of 12 to 15 Dodge County residents, and they are the ones who decide what kind of programs to offer. There are 10 Emergency Certified Disaster volunteers and 3 general volunteers to go to work in a disaster and to help with events that let people know they are available to help in emergencies.
Dodge County Salvation Army has assistance programs and emergency preparedness programs for those in our area who are in need of clothing, food and shelter due to situational circumstances. Long term and short-term needs are met for those who are displaced due to circumstances beyond their control. To find out more about these programs, contact Tanya Young at tyoung8550@yahoo.com, or give her a call at (316) 390-5368. She will help you to get in touch with someone who can help you or someone you know get help in a crisis.
These programs are the main ways the DC Salvation Army helps the community:
The Hygiene and Clothing Project
Winter gear donations in October that are available year round
Easter/Christmas meals for 100 families
Rent and Utility Assistance
Mattress Program for families displaced by Disaster
Northwoods Summer Camp for Kids in Finlayson, Mn
Back to School Shoes
Back to School Haircuts
As you can see, they have a wide variety of programs to help others in place, and trained individuals to keep us safe. Please consider donating where you can! It takes a Village!
