Food and Faith: The Salvation Army in Brockville is Bringing Hope to Those in Need

The Salvation Army in Brockville is continuing to build relationships and bring hope to those in need by changing the methods by which they are serving the community during these uncertain times.

The new public health guidelines regarding COVID-19 and social distancing have meant that The Salvation Army’s Brockville Food Bank has had to adapt, while continuing to provide food to families who are in need.

Throughout the past few weeks, the food bank has provided the opportunity for families to remain in their vehicles rather than coming into the building. Salvation Army staff will greet them and learn information about what support the family needs.

Salvation Army staff and volunteers pre-package food items and necessities for families, which are then brought out to each vehicle. Major Stephen McNeilly, Corps Officer at The Salvation Army Brockville, uses this time to connect with members of the community.

“When the food is brought out to the family, we take the opportunity to speak with them and pray with them,” said Major Stephen. “Changing how we distribute food items has opened up opportunities for conversation.”

Members of The Salvation Army Brockville Church are also calling members of the community to pray with them and make sure everyone is taken care of.

“We make sure that their needs are met,” says Major Stephen, “not just their physical needs but their emotional and spiritual needs as well.”

One member of the community The Salvation Army Brockville Church has been supporting during these uncertain times is a young mother who recently immigrated to Canada.

The young mother arrived in Canada with a 5-year-old son and is expecting her second child in a few short weeks.

“What has caused her the most discomfort is being far from family and friends and not knowing what to do. The Salvation Army is helping to make the transition to life in Canada easier,” said Major Stephen.

Along with providing food and clothing, members of the church have been assisting with trips to doctors’ offices, registering the 5-year-old in school, and getting settled into the Brockville community.

More details on Sunday Services and other activities will be available on Facebook, or you can contact the church at 613-342-5211. If you like to support the work of The Salvation Army please visit http://www.salvationarmy.ca or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY.

By Heather Prystanski