Second chances, a sense of belonging, friendship, growth, guidance
The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit has been Doing The Most Good in southeast Michigan for 133 years – and for 66 of those, the nonprofit has celebrated National Salvation Army Week. The weeklong observance, in part, brings awareness to many of the critical, essential services available to those in need – and the millions of Michiganders who benefit from them every year.
National Salvation Army Week also celebrates The Salvation Army’s volunteers, donors and program beneficiaries who have enabled the nonprofit to serve in the United States since the mid-1800’s. The annual event is being recognized across the country this year May 10 – 16.
Benefits individuals and families receive when taking advantage of some of The Salvation Army’s programs include:
A second chance with The Salvation Army Eastern Michigan Harbor Light System: This drug and alcohol detoxification treatment program is available to individuals requiring assistance to withdraw from alcohol and/or drugs in a structured sub-acute environment. Length of stay is determined through an assessment that includes a physical exam, but is generally three to five days. Prior to discharge, clients are given referrals to the appropriate rehabilitation programs. All of The Salvation Army Harbor Light Detoxification Units are open for admission 24 hours, 7 days per week.
A sense of belonging at any of The Salvation Army’s 13 corps community centers: These neighborhood sanctuaries serve as the heart, soul and core of what The Salvation Army does – Doing The Most Good for everyone in southeast Michigan. Locations are led by dedicated officers, staff and volunteers all committed to sharing God’s love and their dedication to help their neighbors in need with programs designed for maximum inspiration and impact. Corps community centers guide individuals toward self-sufficiency through Pathway of Hope, offer food, shelter and utility assistance for families, provide Christmas “toy shops” and other holiday programs to give the gift of joy on Christmas day and much more.
Friendship at The Salvation Army Echo Grove Camp and Retreat Center: At-risk and low-income youth have enjoyed the fresh air, exercise and the chance to make new, lifelong friendships for 100 years. At Echo Grove, children learn new skills and self-reliance while trained counselors who understand their emotional needs and problems help them to mature.
Growth with The Salvation Army’s Youth Programs: Character building programs, such as music, gospel arts and dance instruction, help teach important life skills to children. After-school sports activities like The Salvation Army’s STRIVE (Student Training for Integrity, Vitality and Education) program offer opportunities for children to learn team building skills and positive sportsmanship behavior – while services such as one-on-one tutoring are available for school-aged children to improve study habits.
Guidance from the William Booth Legal Aid Clinic: Known as the only Salvation Army free legal aid clinic in the world, this essential program helps resolve legal issues affecting low-income families, individuals and U.S. veterans. Last year, The William Booth Legal Aid Clinic helped resolve nearly 1,800 legal issues by providing quality guidance and advocacy in a wide variety of areas involving homelessness, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and consumer advocacy.
National Salvation Army Week was established in 1954 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, nearly 100 years after The Salvation Army was founded in London, England. He proclaimed National Salvation Army Week to be observed the week immediately following Mother’s Day in May.
“National Salvation Army Week is the perfect time to teach the community about the work we do throughout the year to provide a hand up to the people who need it the most,” noted Major Tim Meyer, general secretary, metro Detroit area commander and regional chief operating officer for The Salvation Army Eastern Michigan Division. “The vast number and variety of critical programs and services The Salvation Army offers is crucial to many people’s livelihoods, and we need to make sure we continue to give them access to these services now and in the future.”
Donations made to The Salvation Army go a long way and impact countless people throughout the year. A monthly sustaining gift of $25 helps fund these programs across southeast Michigan, and for every dollar donated, 87 cents directly benefits services in the community from where the donation was received. Visit www.salmich.org or connect with The Salvation Army Eastern Michigan Division on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to learn how you can Do The Most Good today.