Salvation Army Celebrates Canadian Diversity
Canada Day celebrations are just around the corner, and as the nation celebrates its history and diversity, The Salvation Army pays respect to the many cultures that have helped Canada become a thriving and inclusive nation.
“The Salvation Army believes that the world is enriched and strengthened by a diversity of cultures and ethnicities,” says Lt-Colonel John Murray, secretary for communications. “Therefore, our programs and services, employment practices and church life cultivate an atmosphere that respects diversity and affirms the dignity of each individual.”
“The Salvation Army shows love to all mankind and helps people from all walks of life and from every background.”
“What I love about The Salvation Army is that families from all different ethnic backgrounds come and find connection―just as human beings,” says Tricia, an Indigenous woman. “The Salvation Army shows love to all mankind and helps people from all walks of life and from every background.”
Tricia is a single parent who, with her young daughter, receives support from The Salvation Army’s Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre in Calgary.
“When I discovered the resource centre I was heartbroken and devastated by a relationship breakup,” says Tricia. “My family was worried about me. I just cried and stared out the window, feeling alone and scared for my future.”
The resource centre offers a variety of programs that include computer literacy, education and employment preparation, support services, positive parenting and programs that help newcomers to Canada learn about and succeed in our culture and society. In addition, weekly activities provide families the opportunity to come together, unwind and spend quality time with each other.
“The Salvation Army has a lot to do with me going back to university for my social work degree.”
“The resource centre has been life-changing for me and my daughter,” says Tricia. “We found friends, support and connection at a time in our lives when we needed it most.”
The goal of the centre is to build healthy, resilient families who can give back to the community.
“The Salvation Army has a lot to do with me going back to university for my social work degree,” says Tricia. “I panicked when I discovered that professors didn’t take handwritten articles anymore and called the centre’s computer room. They taught me how to use a word document so I could enroll in school. Long story short, I got on the honour roll this past semester because I could prepare my papers on a computer, thanks to The Salvation Army.”
