New Neighbors, New Friends
When Elsa* moved to Wisconsin, she found comfort in living so close to The Salvation Army worship and service center. Unfamiliar with their programs, she was grateful for their support when Christmas approached, and she was unable to buy gifts for her children. The Salvation Army came to her aid and invited the family to participate in their holiday activities.
According to Elsa, “It [The Salvation Army] is such a wonderful and unique organization. I remember the first time I went to pick up toys. I started crying. The Christmas party was incredibly beautiful, too.”
Elsa described in detail the welcoming feeling she experienced from staff, worship and service center members, and volunteers. She remarked at how friendly everyone was, and how much it meant for her to share the spirit of the season with others. What stood out most for her was how special and respected she felt.
“The gifts were fantastic, and Santa Claus was very friendly. I liked listening to the choir. There was a feeling of happiness and harmony. I was sharing with all the people of the community, in brotherhood, as a single family in the name of Jesus Christ, who was born to make us free,” Elsa said.
Today, her family’s life has changed for the better. She and her husband enjoy volunteering and helping others in the neighborhood. Elsa appreciates the opportunity to serve her community and meet new friends through The Salvation Army. She also credits her experiences with The Salvation Army for making her make her “a more sensitive, humble and humane person through the adversities of life.”
*The name and details have been changed to maintain confidentiality.