Celebrating 100 Years of The Salvation Army in Chilliwack

The Salvation Army began its work in Chilliwack in 1924 and today encompasses two ministry units: the Chilliwack Community Church and the Care & Share Centre, where all social service programs are operated.  

Some of these services for the community include the Food Bank, a homeless shelter, a soup kitchen, a thrift store and recycling warehouse, and the Homeless Outreach program. The Chilliwack Salvation Army has worked to provide assistance to needy families throughout Chilliwack. This has included feeding thousands every month through our programs.

This year, The Salvation Army in Chilliwack is celebrating 100 years of dedicated service to the community. Over the past century, their programs have provided critical support to those in need, offering shelter, food, and hope. 

Their shelters, including the 48-bed House of Hope for men and women and the Brigadier Arthur Cartmell House with 20 beds only for women, provide essential emergency housing. Guests receive meals, showers, and support services to connect with long-term housing and healthcare. 

Beyond shelters, The Salvation Army’s Food Bank has served Chilliwack for over 25 years, providing food to more than 3,800 individuals monthly, 30% of which are children. The Pantry program redistributes fresh food from local grocery stores to families in need, reducing food waste and feeding hundreds. 

The outreach team works tirelessly in the community of Chilliwack, offering emergency supplies, showers, and assistance with finding housing. Emergency Disaster Services also play a crucial role, offering meals and comfort to first responders and survivors during crises. The Salvation Army in Chilliwack continues to be a vital source of support, committed to serving the community for many more years to come. 

The Celebration 

This September marked a great celebration in Chilliwack as the community came together to honor 100 years of The Salvation Army’s ministry in the region. The festivities were filled with joy, happiness, and inspiration, as dozens of people gathered to celebrate a century of hope, service, and support. 

Major Fiona Kean, Corps Officer in Chilliwack, explained the relationship between the community and The Salvation Army. “This weekend was about more than looking back—it was about celebrating our future, The Salvation Army has been a pillar of hope in Chilliwack for 100 years, and we are committed to continuing that legacy. We are here for the community, to bring hope, support, and love, just as we have for the past century.” 

The weekend kicked off on the evening of Friday, September 20th, with a special youth event. Youth groups from the area, accompanied by their leaders, filled the space with energy and excitement. The evening was a perfect blend of fun and spiritual growth for those in attendance. 

On Saturday, September 21st, the celebrations continued with a much-anticipated dinner for the community at The Salvation Army Chilliwack. Tickets were limited, and the room was buzzing with conversation and stories of how The Salvation Army has impacted lives over the past century. The meal was more than just food—it was a time of connection, reflection, and gratitude. 

But the highlight of the weekend came later that evening with the “Century of Hope Concert” at the Chilliwack Alliance Church. Featuring the Seattle Temple Band, Songsters, and Territorial Worship Specialist Simon Gough, the concert was an awe-inspiring experience. The music filled the church, lifting spirits and stirring emotions. People of all ages were moved by the powerful performances, which were more than entertainment—they were a tribute to the enduring legacy of The Salvation Army in Chilliwack.

The weekend concluded on Sunday morning, with a heartfelt worship service. Once again, the Seattle Temple Band and Songsters led the congregation in song, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Following the service, a community lunch was served, where people shared their experiences and continued the celebration with activities for all. 

Major Fiona and her team, who were instrumental in organizing the weekend, expressed the significance of the events for the community. “We just want to say thank to the Chilliwack community because they are always so supportive, we could do what we without their help. The support in donations, in volunteering, in their time. Thank you for the generosity.” 

The weekend was truly a testament to the impact of The Salvation Army’s work and its commitment to serving the Chilliwack community for generations to come. To learn more about The Salvation Army in Chilliwack, visit ChilliwackSA.ca. 

Donate today to the ‘March to $1 million’ fundraising campaign at sa100chilliwack.com and help us to continue celebrating 100 years of hope!