Kent County Social Services
The Salvation Army in Kent County has grown with the city of Grand Rapids over the last 140 years to meet the needs of its most vulnerable residents. Kent County Social Services serves to provide a holistic approach to the human needs of our community through individualized case management services. Providing a centralized source for access to eligible services, social services coordinates with in-house programs and other community partners and services, locating personal resources for the successful attainment of financial stability and well-being of participants. Poverty is often a generational barrier to stability that The Salvation Army works to combat through our programs housed in Kent County Social Services.
Kent County Social Services includes:
- Housing Services; the primary entry point for homelessness and housing services in Kent County. Through the Housing Assessment Program, participants go through a screening process to be matched with qualified program referrals. Housing Services assists with rapid rehousing, housing loss prevention, and long-term rental assistance. In 2021, 7,199 residents were served.
- Energy Assistance; a state-wide program is administered by social services to assist with energy (electric and heat) crises and promotes self-sufficiency through financial literacy resources. Available supports offered to eligible participants include utility bill payment assistance, subsidized payment programs, and bill-reduction education. In 2021, 5,679 participants were served in Kent County.
- Emergency Food Assistance Pantry; available 5 days a week, providing 3-5 days of healthy, nutritious groceries for participants. Participants select available options from a menu for their order that is then packed by a volunteer. Beyond food, the pantry also provides clothing, personal care items, baby items, and cleaning supplies when available. In 2021, 10,980 grocery orders were filled.
- Pathway of Hope; provides individualized support for families with children to set and achieve goals to further their family’s stability. A caseworker works with participants to develop a personalized action plan, assist with locating available resources and community supports such as job training, childcare, and educational opportunities, and serves as an accountability partner. In 2021, 18 participants were served, and the program won the Pathway of Hope achievement award for the central territory.
- Angel Tree Toy Drive; coordinates participant sign ups, applications, and toy shopping with other divisions within The Salvation Army to ensure as many “Angels” as possible receive Christmas presents. Every child in Kent County should experience the joy of opening gifts on Christmas morning. In 2021, 5,000 Christmas toys were given out.
Kent County Social Services is open Monday thru Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM. For more information, or to receive assistance call (616)459-9468 or visit us in person at 1215 Fulton Street East, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. For housing assistance, please call United Way’s 211.