Dear Santa:
The Salvation Army captain in town recently spoke to our local service organization.
He spoke about the history of The Salvation Army; founded by a Methodist minister William Booth and his wife, Catherine, in 1865. He talked about The Salvation Army's history in our community since 1882.
He then talked about all the programs and services within our community: Emergency Crisis Help - Food Pantry, Utilities, Housing, Referrals, Project Break Through; Christmas Assistance - Holiday Meals, Toys, Visitation; Community Outreach - Nursing Homes, Prisons, Schools; Instruction and Devotions - Music, Sports; Service Opportunities - Red Kettle Appeal, Volunteering Time.
All this motivated by The Salvation Army mission. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
He further stated that The Salvation Army does a good job of connecting those who have resources to those in need.
He then related this story: A donor that routinely makes donations to The Salvation Army had a fairly usually request.
The donor did not mind giving to The Salvation Army but he was hoping that his donation was truly benefiting families. On this particular occasion he needed some help with yard work.
He wanted someone that The Salvation Army has helped to do the yard work. He would pay the individual. It would be a win-win for both parties he thought. He would get yard work completed and he also would be able to provide temporary work for an individual in need.
Nothing happens by circumstance, the captain stated. Several days after receiving the request from the donor an individual-family walked into the office requesting assistance. He was laid off, had developed some medical issues and got behind in their household bills. This is the first time this family approached The Salvation Army for assistance. After doing some research he was indeed laid off and had an illness but was now able to work.
The Salvation Army was able to provide assistance to this family. The Salvation Army also was able to provide a good worker for the donor. The individual jumped at the opportunity to get some extra work.
Truth be told, he did well providing a good work day.
The donor was happy that The Salvation Army is able to help families (and individuals) as each develops to their next step to becoming stable and productive within our community.
Sincerely your friend,
Tony
Please help by giving generously to the Sun-Gazette and the Salvation Army Santa Fund.
You can help make this a brighter holiday season for local families by making a contribution in person to any branch of M&T Bank or by mail to M&T Bank at 405 River Ave.; at the Salvation Army, 457 Market St.; or the Sun-Gazette office, 252 W. Fourth St., Williamsport, PA 17701.
The Santa Fund is a fundraiser organized by the Sun-Gazette and the Salvation Army to help local families in need.
