Rising Again with Support from The Salvation Army

For many years, David relied on The Salvation Army during his times of need. He faced challenges such as homelessness, struggles with addiction and mental health issues. With the Army’s support, he has been able to confront these difficulties head-on.

More than a decade ago, while David lived in Manitoba, he recalls how The Salvation Army helped him when he was homeless.

“They actually got me into my first apartment ever,” he shares.

As a form of gratitude, David frequently volunteered for the Army, taking great joy in working Christmas kettle shifts.

Today, David lives in a transitional housing unit in Fort Frances, Ont.

“I feel like I’m at home at The Salvation Army.”

“I ended up being displaced, homeless again, on an impulsive decision.”

Despite the setback, David recently got sober and says he is working on himself to not fall back into old patterns. However, his financial situation is difficult since he has not been able to find employment.

Having experienced The Salvation Army’s assistance in the past, David went to see how they could help him.

“The Salvation Army helped me with medication I couldn’t afford. They also gave me 30 pounds of food that I still have and is helping me today. It feels like the volunteer work I did is coming back to me,” he says.

According to David, this assistance has saved him and his family a lot of stress.

“The help was crucial. It keeps me alive, it keeps me going and it keeps me motivated to do good.”

“I am super grateful.”

In addition, he says the staff always make him feel comfortable.

“I feel like I’m at home at The Salvation Army,” David adds. “They appreciate and value the effort I put in and show that they love me every time I walk in there. It’s a really good feeling.”

Without the support of The Salvation Army, David says he doesn’t think he would have been able to deal with the difficulties he is currently facing.

“Other than the house I’m living in, and my girlfriend’s support, I would have nothing. The help was crucial. It keeps me alive, it keeps me going and it keeps me motivated to do good,” he shares.

As David attempts to get back on track, he is taking one step at a time. The ultimate goal is to overcome everything he has gone through. Eventually, he hopes to give back.

“I plan to give what I know and what I’ve learned. I plan to give it back to someone experiencing a similar situation.”

By Juan Romero