Largest provider of poverty relief anticipates need for additional funding in order to meet demand for services
The Salvation Army, the nation’s largest social services organization with more than 7,600 service locations across the country, is increasing efforts to meet human need. In response to the coronavirus pandemic, the organization has evolved service delivery to ensure that immediate needs of community members, first responders, and government partners are met.
With an expected spike in requests over the coming weeks, months, and potentially years, ongoing public support will be needed to help ensure that services are available to existing and new vulnerable populations. While all are impacted by the coronavirus outbreak, the one in six Americans who are living in poverty will likely feel the effects quicker and more significantly.
The Salvation Army is ensuring that people have access to food and desperately needed services including drive-through food pickup and community-based food delivery.
On Sunday, March 22, from noon to 2 p.m., lunches will be provided, for seniors, at The Salvation Army Kroc Center at 575 Division St. in Biloxi, as a drive-through service. As more funding and resources become available, The Salvation Army MS Gulf Coast will bravely and compassionately serve the community. Should anyone need assistance please call your local Social Serve office. Donations of non- perishable foods and cleaning supplies will be accepted outside of these locations:
- 2019 22nd Street, Gulfport, MS 39501 Phone: 228- 228-374-8301
- 575 Division Street, Biloxi, MS 39530 (Donation drop off ONLY) Phone: 228-207-1218
- 3217 Nathan Hale Ave, Pascagoula, MS 39581 Phone: 228-762-7222
- 52 Virginia Street, Suite A, Lucedale, MS 39452 Phone: 601-766-3577
In the months that follow, The Salvation Army will continue to provide basic needs to the 23 million Americans it already serves, and anticipates it will also serve the increased need that is born out of the virus. Anticipated impacts on the economy and workforce will likely force more Americans to seek rental, utility, and other forms of assistance. While the full scope of the pandemic’s economic impact is still unknown, cancelled fundraising events and market volatility elevate the need for public support in order to maintain and grow these efforts.
“Though this is an unprecedented situation for all of us, its impact will be greatest on the least of these,” said Commissioner David Hudson, national commander of The Salvation Army. “Millions of Americans were already living paycheck to paycheck, and they will likely face incredible challenges from these uncertain times. Across the country, The Salvation Army is committed to serving those who need our help, and we are thankful for generous public support which will allow that to happen.”
To contribute to The Salvation Army’s efforts in your community, visit salarmy.us/covid.
