Rejoicing Despite Hardship: Gemma's Story
With a presence in almost every ZIP code in America, The Salvation Army is uniquely positioned to respond to the unique needs of people living in poverty. These challenges are exponentially magnified during times of crisis, including pandemics like coronavirus (COVID-19). Across the United States, we are stepping up to the challenge and continue to serve the most vulnerable populations in each community. The following is from Gemma, one of the many people we are meeting the needs of during difficult times.
What does it mean to you to have The Salvation Army support you during the COVID-19 crisis?
I’m so blessed and thankful to have the support of The Salvation Army and all my friends from the Farmington Hills Corps. It means a lot to me that The Salvation Army is there to help me during this tough time. Because of COVID-19, I was laid off, and The Salvation Army has assisted me through food boxes and gift cards.
How long have you known about/been involved with The Salvation Army, and how did you first get involved?
I’ve known The Salvation Army for more than a year through Diana Brown from the Farmington Hills Corps. Her son in-law was my husband best friend. Last year, my husband passed away, and Diana let Majors Romeo and Evelyn Alip know about my loss. Majors Alip came to my house the day that my husband passed. I am so grateful for how they have been there for me. Since then, I have been involved in The Salvation Army, going to Sunday worship, attending our International Fellowship evenings, participating in many Corps activities, and volunteering as a bell ringer last December.
What kind of help have you received from The Salvation Army, and how has it affected your life?
The Salvation Army has not only helped me with physical needs like food, they have also provided for my spiritual needs as well. The prayers of Lieutenants Anil and Karen Kumar have impacted my life the most. I am so thankful for their words of encouragement. They have improved my life perspective, which is especially helpful in this time of crisis.
Why is it important for the community as a whole to support The Salvation Army?
It is important to support The Salvation Army because their goal is to serve and help people without discrimination. They help everyone in their community.