Salvation Army Bell Ringers And Thrift Stores

Year after year, during the holiday season, you will encounter a familiar sight. I'm not referring to Santa, but instead to the volunteers that ring the bells for The Salvation Army. Both the buckets and the organization are well known. Thrift stores, in addition to the money donated in the red buckets, provide the necessary funding to support their many programs.

This season, the money that is received will assist with a variety of services to help the needy. The Salvation Army drug and alcohol rehabilitation program is one of the most well-known. With 119 Adult Rehabilitation Centers, there are many throughout the country. The centers are designed to minister to those that wish to seek help for their drug or substance abuse issues.

To enter the program, you must complete a comprehensive intake interview. The program expects a long term commitment of at least 6 months. This period of time enables those in need to make life changes that will enable them to become productive members of their local communities. Applicants can apply directly, or may be referred by friends or family members.

The program focuses on helping participants achieve a life that is balanced. Spiritual direction is provided by applying the principles of the Christian faith. Individual and group counseling is also utilized to assist with changes in both thinking and behavior. The beneficiary of these services must be willing to cooperate with all components of the program.

Another program that isn't knows nearly as well is the Missing Person Service. Although the program doesn't assist with searches involving runaways or parental kidnappings, among other types of missing person cases, they can help assist with reconnecting with a lost family member. The purpose is to reunite families. You will need required information such as the name, date of birth, and birthplace.

When disaster strikes, we most often hear about the Red Cross. However, The Salvation Army is also heavily involved in disaster areas. Their efforts aren't just centered in the United States. Most recently, The Salvation Army provided assistance with flood relief in the Philippines.

In addition to their other programs, The Salvation Army offers children from low-income families the opportunity to attend youth camps. These camps are designed to equip children with new skills that help them to become self-reliant. Counselors are also on hand to help those children that have emotional needs.

During your shopping this season, take the opportunity to visit one of The Salvation Army thrift stores. If you don't have a store in your area, you can rest assured that you will meet a bell ringer at the entrance to your local grocery store or retail store. Donate what you can to help keep these beneficial programs that are offered by The Salvation Army.