Written by: TFVstaff • March 24, 2020• In the Community

The Salvation Army’s Response to Unprecedented Need Caused by the Covid-19 Pandemic

The Salvation Army, the nation’s largest social services organization with more than 7,600 service locations across the country, is increasing efforts to meet human need. In response to the coronavirus pandemic, the organization has evolved service delivery to ensure that immediate needs of community members, first responders, and government partners are met.

With an expected spike in requests over the coming weeks, months, and potentially years, ongoing public support will be needed to help ensure that services are available to existing and new vulnerable populations. While all are impacted by the coronavirus outbreak, the one in six Americans who are living in poverty will likely feel the effects quicker and more significantly. According to the Census Bureau, Miami has the second-lowest median household income of any major metro area. Over 900,000 residents living in poverty will be impacted.

The Salvation Army is ensuring that people have access to food, shelter, and desperately needed services like childcare through its nationwide network. This includes drive-through food pickup, community-based food delivery through canteens, and meals at Salvation Army facilities. The organization is also providing snacks and hydration to first responders.

In Miami-Dade County, The Salvation Army is continuing to aid the homeless population at its Red Shield Lodge located at 1907 NW 38th Street. The four other Salvation Army Community Centers across the city have remained open between 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. providing food, water and deliveries of essential products to the elderly.

In the months that follow, The Salvation Army will continue to provide basic needs to the 23 million Americans it already serves, and anticipates it will also serve a new generation of need that is born out of the virus. Anticipated impacts on the economy and workforce will likely force more Americans to seek rental, utility, and other forms of assistance. While the full scope of the pandemic’s economic impact is still unknown, canceled fundraising events and market volatility elevate the need for public support in order to maintain and grow these efforts.

“Though this is an unprecedented situation for all of us, its impact will be greatest on the least of these,” said Commissioner David Hudson, National Commander of The Salvation Army. “Millions of Americans were already living paycheck to paycheck, and they will likely face incredible challenges from these uncertain times. Across the country, The Salvation Army is committed to serving those who need our help, and we are thankful for generous public support which will allow that to happen.”

To contribute to The Salvation Army’s efforts in your community, visit www.SalvationArmyFlorida.org/give

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