THE SALVATION ARMY ANNOUNCES NEW LOCATION
After more than 15 years of planning, fundraising, and dreaming, The Salvation Army of Jacksonville is moving to a new location on Wall Street with a new name, The Salvation Army Center of Hope. This name reflects the organization's mission of providing help and hope to the community's most vulnerable members, motivated by the love of Jesus and a commitment to caring for people.
The Salvation Army has served Jacksonville since 1887 and has operated from its current location at 331 W Douglas Ave for the past 80 years. However, after purchasing a building at the former MacMurray Campus last year and encountering high renovation costs and economic challenges, the organization decided to explore other properties.
The new facility at 1120-1128 Wall Street was chosen for its energy efficiency, minimal renovation needs, and suitability for current and future programs. The building provides ample space for expansion and meets the long-term viability needs of The Salvation Army in the community. It will open its doors to the community on Monday, July 8.
The Salvation Army offers a variety of vital programs and services in Jacksonville and Morgan County, including the largest client-choice food pantry, a free lunch program, emergency utility and housing assistance, shelter needs, Christmas assistance, a back-to-school clothing program, a community baby shower, clothing assistance, a back-to-work program, and more. The new facility will allow for the expansion of these services and the introduction of new programs for youth, seniors, and families.
The Salvation Army’s new home is centrally located, making it more accessible to clients and the community. It’s also closer to other vital services, including the Crisis Center Foundation and hotels used for emergency sheltering.
“We are so grateful to everyone who donated to the initial Capital Campaign, which made this move possible,” said Major Chris Clarke. “Because of this community’s generosity, we can bring hope to our most vulnerable during their greatest times of need.” The current property at 331 W Douglas Ave will be sold, as will the building at the former MacMurray campus.
Individuals and groups interested in volunteering can contact The Salvation Army at 217-245-7124. The organization looks forward to continuing its mission of meeting the needs of the most vulnerable in the community from its new location, offering hope, dignity, and sustainability one family and individual at a time.