Our Corps Community Centers: How We Help Those In Need
Pictured above: The Royal Oak Corps Community Center.
A single mother has bills piling up and is facing eviction from her home. A veteran who has been living on the streets for the past several months confronts hunger daily and is struggling with substance abuse. A young couple is having a hard time paying their utility bill each month and needs to start regulating their finances with a consistent budget. What do these people have in common? Our programs and services help lift them out of their predicaments.
But how exactly are these services provided to those in need? Through our corps community centers. If you need help, know someone who does, or want to know more about what we do in your community, the following information will help you better understand how we meet the needs of individuals and families.
Where: Your local corps community center stands ready to provide the free services mentioned above and much more to everyone in need, without discrimination and at no cost to all who come through our doors. Find free help near you.
What: Every corps community center focuses its services to meet the needs of its specific neighborhood, but there are programs common to each corps community center as well:
- A free food pantry where individuals and families can receive food and meals at no charge. Food distributions occur based on corps community center resources, typically on a weekly or monthly basis
- Children’s programs, including homework assistance, sports, music programs, day camps, and after-school care, are available at no or low cost.
- Free employment services, rent/utility assistance, and counseling through the Pathway of Hope program. Our caseworkers map out a personalized plan for each individual/family who enrolls and provides assistance with job training, healthcare, education, legal assistance, and emergency assistance. Anyone who wants to set goals for a brighter future will benefit greatly from this program.
- Holiday assistance in the form of free meals, Christmas toys, coats for children and families, and bill assistance.
- Spiritual growth and encouragement. Every corps community center is a Christian church, with ordained pastors (called ‘officers’) leading the congregation. Those seeking spiritual growth and encouragement are welcome to attend Sunday school, Sunday worship services, and weekly Bible studies and community groups.
Who: Our services and programs are available to all, without discrimination. You do not need to become part of the church or attend Sunday services to receive help. Our corps community centers are run by ordained pastors, social workers, caseworkers, and compassionate volunteers who would love to meet you and help you with anything you need, whether it is rent assistance or a listening ear.
Why: The Salvation Army’s ministry is motivated by the love of God.
If you are in need of our services, you can always find a corps community center near you.