The Salvation Army of Greater Chattanooga 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. 
 
In the Greater Chattanooga Area, The Salvation Army is continuing to meet needs through its Social Service office including food bags, utility and medication assistance and more. Due to the increased needs, food distribution from the Social Service offices in East Lake has gone from two days per week to five days per week, with pantry shelves emptying as quickly as they are stocked. In response, The Salvation Army is partnering with local grocery stores and many Walmart locations around town to host an in-store and online food drive. A listing of local participating sites can be found here. 
 
The Salvation Army’s Day shelter has moved outdoors on its property and is continuing to serve the unhoused community by providing food, hygiene kits, information about COVID-19 and areas providing electricity to charge cell phones.  The Chattanooga Salvation Army is working with the Chattanooga Community Kitchen, The Hamilton County Health Department and the Hamilton County Emergency Management Offices to best serve and house those from the homeless community who need isolated or quarantined shelter.  The Salvation Army will be the shelter manager and distribute food once this shelter is identified and opens. 
 
In Cleveland, The Salvation Army is providing showers and laundry services on a limited basis for the unhoused community, along with limited social services. The Cleveland Salvation Army community feeding continues with to-go meals and Inman Coffee continues to serve the community with curbside service. 
 
"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," officials said. "While all are impacted by the coronavirus outbreak, those who are living in poverty will likely feel the effects quicker and more significantly."
 
To contribute to The Salvation Army’s efforts, visit csarmy.org. If you are in need, call 423-756-1023 and ask for the social service offices.