The Salvation Army ‘Takes the Edge Off’ For Detroiters With Strained Budgets
“I love coming here because it’s right in the neighborhood.”
This sentiment is echoed by nearly every person standing in line for the weekly food distribution at the Conner Creek Corps Community Center in Detroit. It’s a hot summer day at the corps, but nobody seems to mind the short wait outside the building.
“I retired not long ago, and my income changed drastically,” says neighborhood resident Evon Gavin. “I don’t get food stamps or anything. A friend told me about the corps community center, and I was shocked how helpful people were when I got here. I appreciate it so much.”
With its various programs ranging from children’s summer camp to a monthly senior luncheon, The Salvation Army has made impact in the neighborhood and gained the trust of those who come for its services. In some ways, however, the real work is just beginning. With a capital campaign for a bold expansion plan underway, the corps is preparing to bolster its capacity to reach out and serve those in need.
“I have food stamps, but my niece and I go through them very quickly,” says Michael Ember, who started visiting the food pantry this past January. “This service keeps people from having to search garbage cans just to eat. Resources are pretty scarce right now. Any kind of expansion of services would be helpful.”
“A lot of people who don’t qualify for food stamps have a hard time with food, too,” shares another man in line. “I’m taking care of two grandchildren and am having a hard time making ends meet each month. The food box from The Salvation Army takes the edge off.”
The Salvation Army’s capital campaign for the Conner Creek Corps Community Center is seeking community support. Salvation Army supporters can make a $25 sustaining donation to fund the construction and ongoing activities and critical, life-improving services to children, seniors and families in need at Conner Creek, by:
- Texting SUMMER to 24365
- Visiting salmich.org/summerinthecity and clicking DONATE
- Calling 877-SAL-MICH
- Sending a check made payable to The Salvation Army, to: 16130 Northland Dr., Southfield, MI 48075