The Salvation Army Alaska Division Celebrates National Salvation Army Week
Anchorage, AK – This coming week, May 10 – 16, 2021, marks the 67th National Salvation Army Week celebrated throughout the United States. First commissioned by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1954, because, “Among Americans, The Salvation Army has long been a symbol of wholehearted dedication to the cause of human brotherhood. In time of war, the men and women of this organization have brought to those serving their country far from home, friendliness and warm concern. In the quieter days of peace, their work has been a constant reminder to us all that each of us is neighbor and kin to all Americans.”
“The Salvation Army has been actively serving the most vulnerable in Alaska since 1898,” said Lt. Colonel Douglas Tollerud, Divisional Commander for The Salvation Army in Alaska. “Over the past 122 years of service to Alaska, The Salvation Army has grown to 17 Corps Community Centers and 3 extension units throughout the state and critical social service programs serving those who are in the most need. We are taking this week to recognize our dutiful supporters, staff, and volunteers who make the work of The Salvation Army possible.”
The Salvation Army in Alaska supports Alaskans in need through programs providing rehabilitation, cognitive reparation, spiritual assistance, food, shelter and more. The Salvation Army’s mission is to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
In 2020, The Salvation Army helped 76,928 Alaskans who were in need. 298,758 meals and 9,970 food boxes were given to those experiencing food insecurity statewide. Over 9,500 Alaskans received emotional and spiritual support from Salvation Army Corps Community Center officers in Alaska. In Anchorage, 256 families received case management assistance and were transitioned into permanent housing through The Salvation Army McKinnell House, and nearly 6,000 seniors received weekly home-delivered meals. Nationwide, The Salvation Army helps more than 23 million Americans annually.
To help The Salvation Army continue to provide social service programs in Alaska year-round, donate online at alaska.salvationarmy.org.
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The Salvation Army, an evangelic part of the universal Christian church, supports those in need in His name without discrimination, offering spiritual encouragement and basic services to meet the needs of Alaskans in 19 communities. The Salvation Army has been caring for mind, body, spirit and soul of individuals, children, and families in Alaska since 1898. In FY2020, The Salvation Army served 298,758 meals, distributed 37,750 toys and gifts to kids in need and provided over 8,600 contacts with emotional and spiritual support, helping nearly 77,000 Alaskans statewide. For more information, please visit alaska.salvationarmy.org.