The Salvation Army Accepting Requests for Holiday Help
Applicationsopen for metro Detroit families, seniors in need of Christmas assistance
SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – The Salvation Army of MetroDetroit is currently accepting applications for Christmas assistance fromresidents of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. Applications will be accepted Nov.7 through Dec. 9.
In September the U.S. Census Bureau reported the number ofAmericans in poverty jumped to 15.1 percent in 2010, a 27-year high. Michigan'spoverty rate also rose to 16.8 percent, up from 14 percent last year.
"Last Christmas we saw a nearly 20percent increase in demand for assistance," said Major Mark Anderson, general secretary and metro Detroit area commander for TheSalvation Army. "We expect requests to increase again this year as families andseniors continue to struggle with limited resources," Anderson said.
In 2010The Salvation Army provided 91,553 Christmas gifts to children and seniors. Familiesin need of assistance should contact their local Salvation Army Corps CommunityCenter to set up an appointment. To find the center closest to you, visit www.salmich.org or call (248) 443-5500. Earlyapplications are strongly recommended.
Thisprogram is reserved for families with children; those with special needs; andsenior citizens. Applicants must bring a picture ID for each household adult,birth certificates for household children, a current utility bill, as well asproof of household income and expenses.
Founded by William and Catherine Booth in London,England in 1865, The Salvation Army is a faith-based, non-profit organizationdedicated to serving people in need without discrimination. This past year, The Salvation Army ofMetro Detroit was involved in providing 3,194,802 million meals and 687,203nights of shelter for the homeless. The Salvation Army uses $.85 of everydollar raised to provide direct services to people in need each and every dayof the year. For more information about The Salvation Army, please call877-SAL-MICH, or visit us at www.salmich.org.