The Salvation Army is about people in need and people who care. Where there is a need in the community, The Salvation Army rises to meet the challenge in a variety of ways. Practical assistance during emergencies, regular provision of food to thousands of people and a listening ear are some examples of how The Salvation Army makes a difference.

The following is an account of a day’s work at The Salvation Army Community & Family Services office in Kingston, Ont.:

When the staff arrived, one appointment was booked in the afternoon. It looked like a slow day. By the day’s end 11 clients (eight were new to the office) came for assistance. Some picked up food and left. Others had different needs and concerns.

· A father was just diagnosed with cancer and a family meeting was called to share the information. Staff listened, prayed for the father, and helped with food.

· A client was released from hospital after a 5-week stay for attempted suicide. She was previously in hospital due to severe injuries from domestic abuse and was in a shelter with her children. The Salvation Army provided clothing, furniture, food and a listening ear.

· Staff listened to an excited client about a new job. They encouraged him and gave food assistance.

· A roofer with an abscessed tooth had no money for meds. Due to rain, this month’s income was $240. He was referred to Ontario Works to request a top up for income. Salvation Army workers recommended that he go to a walk-in clinic, tell them his situation and request sample drugs if possible. If there were no samples available, and he got a prescription, The Salvation Army would help him pay for it.

· A client lost everything in an apartment fire. The partner was in intensive care. They were given a clothing voucher. The landlord insisted she clean up after the fire herself. The Salvation Army referred them to housing help, because they know tenant rights. The client was also referred to free legal help and given food assistance.

· A client left her husband. She came to Canada, her home land, with young children. She is staying with friends and trying to find an apartment. She came to request food assistance. She also wanted to talk about why she left the U.S. and received information on Salvation Army programs. She was referred to Housing Help for housing and to the local Salvation Army church as she was interested in Sunday School for her children.

· A client lost his dad one month ago and just moved from BC to be with his mom and family. He has no money and has applied for social assistance, but did not know where to find help in mean time. He was given a map of the city that that showed where the local food bank and other community resources could be found. He said he couldn’t read and was encouraged to ask friends and family for assistance.

The Salvation Army continues to meet the changing needs of society. Skilled and committed workers serve communities across the country, providing support, care and compassion to those who have fallen on hard times.