MEAL DELIVERIES
THE SALVATION ARMY EXPANDS MEAL DELIVERY PROGRAM THANKS TO PETOSKEY-HARBOR SPRINGS AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AND DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS
August 22, 2023, Petoskey, MI - The Salvation Army received a $15,000 award from the Petoskey-Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation to address the increased need for delivered meals to local seniors, homebound and mobility impaired neighbors. Due to the increased number of meals being delivered, the need for transportation and inflation increasing expenses across the board, the expense to operate the program has increased greatly from when it began.
“We sincerely appreciate Petoskey-Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation for helping fund the increase of meals being delivered and the many dedicated volunteers who show up every week to make it possible” says Corps Administrator Roman Hank.
Pre-pandemic, approximately 70 congregate meals were served to hungry neighbors weekly; however, to ensure the large population of seniors still had access to prepared meals after the pandemic hit, The Salvation Army began delivering to local seniors, homebound and mobility impaired individuals every Friday. Because of the outreach, they found many more mobility impaired and shut-ins who needed meals and have now more than doubled the number served. Additionally, grocery items are often distributed during Friday meal deliveries and on Wednesdays and Fridays, The Salvation Army serves carry-out meals to low-income working individuals, sobriety homes and homeless.
Due to staffing challenges, J.W. Filmore’s who has graciously been preparing most of the food at a reduced expense for the community meals over the last 7 years is unable to continue; however, The Salvation Army was blessed with the opportunity to move program operations to The Church of Christ until the commercial kitchen is completed at the new Corps Community Center. The Church of Christ is graciously providing use of their kitchen, preparation area and their certified food handler, Mary Anne Kolinske, graciously volunteered to oversee the operations until the renovations are complete.
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. For more about our year-round programs and services or to make a donation, please call (231)347-3531 or visit SAPetoskey.org.