Staying Connected in Southeast Indiana: Serving Our Communities Through the Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, with restrictions on social interaction, finding creative ways to engage with others is crucial. The Salvation Army New Albany and Madison have found new ways to engage their corps communities and stay connected with their church families during these uncertain times.
In the face of social isolation, The Salvation Army Madison Indiana works extra hard to serve those in need through their drive-through food pantry. On Friday, May 1, with the help of dedicated volunteers, the corps was able to serve over 100 families with food boxes to offer basic needs during these hard times.
The team at our Madison corps is also working to stay connected to the seniors and families of their community. With regular programming temporarily on hold, these individuals who would normally be in the building to participate in regular programs must now step away from the facility and practice social distancing. However, Captain Stephanie Hartley put together more than 50 care packages for the members of their corps family and delivered the packages to these individuals’ homes. These care packages included toiletries, school supplies, craft activities, and other reminders that the families are loved and missed.
Other members in our local communities have offered their services to create new ways to show support to those in need. For example, The Salvation Army New Albany Indiana is working with a local business owner to promote the Green Light Challenge. PC Home Stores is providing green colored light bulbs for all individuals who donate to COVID-19 relief efforts. Donors then install these light bulbs on their front porch as a fun, colorful way to show support and solidarity during these times of social isolation. Proceeds from the Green Light Challenge have gone to the Bed & Bread Club Challenge, the New Albany Corps’ virtual fundraiser to raise money to assist local families with basic needs. The Bed & Bread Club Challenge took place throughout the month of April and reached its goal of raising $65,000 for COVID-19 relief efforts.