Colder Days Ahead: Winter brings increased need for services
As the temperature begins to drop, the need for The Salvation Army's services rises. Every winter, high energy bills put a strain on struggling families and individuals. Kids in need risk going without proper winter gear. And freezing temperatures threaten the lives of those living on the streets.
Learn more below about how our services help keep your neighbors in need safe, warm and well-loved, all winter long.
Meals & Basic Needs
No one should ever have to make the difficult choice between eating a meal or paying a bill. But, the simple truth is, colder temperatures can bring higher monthly bills in the form of an unexpected car repair, the increased cost to heat a home, medical bills related to winter illness, and more. Whenever this difficult choice arises, we provide groceries or hot meals to ensure empty stomachs are filled, providing more than 55 million warm, nutritious meals annually. Upon entering our doors, we can also assess sources of financial stress and meet other basic needs to free up future income.
Housing & Utility Bills
The Salvation Army is here to help people stay in their homes when they have nowhere else to turn. This becomes especially important during winter months across the Midwest when living on the streets can endanger someone's life. Our emergency rent and utility bill assistance programs help prevent families and individuals from becoming homeless, and ensure they have the basic services needed to safely remain in their home. When someone is already living out of a car or on the streets, our centers act as a refuge from the cold when temperatures become extreme. We also operate housing programs across the Midwest to provide safe shelter for a transitional season in someone's life.
Clothing & Household Items
Clothing and household items can be a drain on an already tight budget, particularly during winter. Growing kids often outgrow snow boots, gloves, hats, coats and other winter gear from year to year. When they do, many Salvation Army locations across the Midwest have programs to ensure children are properly outfitted for the coldest days winter can bring.
Learn more about how we meet basic needs to help those we serve overcome poverty.
Seasonal Services
The holidays can bring added financial and emotional stress to families and individuals living in poverty. But, we aim to bring joy back into the season.
Every year, parents must choose between giving their children gifts or paying bills. Our programs provide toys to kids who otherwise might not find anything under the tree on Christmas morning, giving parents peace of mind.
Individuals facing poverty often spend the holidays without the warmth of a shared meal or even a support system. The Salvation Army brings people together for the holidays by providing everything needed for a traditional Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner at home and hot meals at our centers where hundreds gather. Giving everyone, young and old, a place to celebrate is a simple way we can bring joy to others. Learn more about how we aim to brighten the holidays.
Partner with Us
This time of year is when we need your support the most. When you click to donate below, you are partnering with us in providing services all winter long.