The Salvation Army of Chattanooga is calling on local businesses, schools and churches for help in hosting collection drives for in-kind donations to support its services and programs.
“With the rise in inflation, many individuals and families are experiencing financial hardships for the first time,” said Captain Mark Love of the Chattanooga Area Command. “Because of the many compassionate and generous Chattanooga community members, we have been able provide support and resources to those in need for over 130 years.
It’s a blessing to be able to come together as a community to support those in need, so we encourage Chattanooga leaders to get involved in the work we do.”
Officials said, "Donations to support The Salvation Army’s services and programs are currently lower than average. The 614 Corps Day Shelter serves nearly 300 community members a week through social service’s food and personal care pantry, the Life Navigation Ministry and the Blessing Place.
"The Salvation Army’s social services provides a food and personal care pantry on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. -noon for those experiencing hardships. Clients can visit the pantry every 30 days to receive items they are in need of.
"The Life Navigation Ministry, a mobile program on wheels that allows The Salvation Army to meet people where they are and address their needs, is consistently in need of in-kind donations. For those experiencing homelessness, it offers case management, counseling and housing navigation, as well as necessities like food, hygiene products, water, blankets, scarves and more.
"Additionally, items are needed for The Salvation Army’s Blessing Place, which aids less fortunate community members from 1-3 p.m. every Monday – Thursday. Run by volunteers, The Blessing Place carries groceries, hygiene items and new undergarments and clothes for men, women and children. It allows Chattanooga’s unhoused neighbors to shop with dignity for necessary items and clothing at no charge."
Drives are needed for in-kind donations such as food, personal hygiene kits and gently used or new clothes. Items needed include new and not expired:
• canned goods (meats, soups, fruits and vegetables);
• peanut butter and jelly;
• grains;
• individually wrapped snack items;
• waters and sports drinks;
• travel hygiene itemsl
• men, women and children’s socks and undergarments;
• men, women and children’s clothes and shoes; and
• waterproof gear (tents, sleeping bags, flashlights and ponchos).
Join the Salvation Army’s #FightforGood and visit csarmy.org/volunteer, or call 423-756-1023 to get involved.