The Salvation Army has a history of helping fight for the souls of lost men and women. It began in England as a “Christian Mission”, but with more than 1,000 volunteers and evangelists it became better known as a “volunteer army.” In 1888, volunteers came to America, and began preaching in Salvation Army uniforms in Dallas, Texas.
“The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Our message is based on the Bible, our ministry is motivated by the love of God, and our mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ as we meet human needs in His name without discrimination. Every program we offer is rooted in our passion to serve God by serving the lost, the vulnerable, the needy, the poor, the hurting, the helpless and the hopeless,” said Captain Rebecca Galabeas.
Today the Salvation Army serves 127 countries. In the United Sates, they help over 25,000,000 people annually. In 2020, the Salvation Army of Laredo helped over 500 families in need and served over 18,000 meals. They have a lodge that provides shelter for men, women and children. They have a soup kitchen that provides daily meals. They operate a thrift store that provides clothing and other necessities at reduced costs. They also have an emergency food pantry, financial assistance programs, a Christmas program and disaster relief services.
We never know when we are going to need help, but it’s great to know there are agencies ready to lend a hand when you are in need. Alejandra Garcia shares, “It has been really difficult during this COVID pandemic time, we have struggled to pay the rent, utilities and buy food. To make matters worse, I was involved in a car accident where the other driver did not take responsibility for his actions. I was unable to work and almost lost my job, because I had to take care of my baby who was injured in the accident for three months. Thank God my child is okay, but my situation was dire. The Salvation Army not only helped me with rent, but they united in prayer for my baby. They gave me hope and helped me when I felt was at my lowest. They provided us with food for our bodies and our souls.” Alejandra says, “I will always be grateful to the Salvation Army for their help and support.”
Alejandra is just one example of the lives you touch when you give to United Way. Your donation ensures that agencies like The Salvation Army are around to help people in times of need. For more information on how you can support the United Way of Laredo or any of their network of agencies, contact the United Way at uwlaredo@unitedwaylaredo.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaylaredo.org If you are in need of community resources and are not sure where to turn dial 2-1-1 for information on programs and services in available in our community.
