Generous Donations Helping to Meet Increasing Needs at Ottawa Booth Centre

by Caroline Franks
Categories: Divisional News
Share:

As we continue to endure the affects of a global pandemic this winter, more and more individuals and families need assistance with the basic necessities as well as emotional and spiritual support.  The Salvation Army in Ottawa is so grateful for the unwavering and generous support from donors in Ottawa and throughout Eastern Ontario that is helping to assist thousand of families.

Donations to The Salvation Army, including those from the 2020 Christmas campaigns, go directly to support people in need through vital programs and services.

One of the greatest needs at The Salvation Army’s Ottawa Booth Centre is food and clothing, both of which are regularly distributed through the Community and Family Services team.

“We’re making sure that people going through an exceptionally hard time are being well supported and have what they need,” said Ottawa Booth Centre Executive Director, Marc Provost.  “When you make a donation to The Salvation Army, that money helps support programs like Street Outreach, Life Skills, and Community and Family Services.”

Marc explained that people are also able to access other supports when contact The Salvation Army.  “When calling for food or clothing assistance, they often don’t realize the several other services available that we then connect them to.”

“One family exclaimed ‘I can’t believe you are going to help me with toys for Christmas too,’” said Marc.  “You can see the relief in their faces when they realized they would actually be able to have a normal Christmas with their family.”

Areas of greatest need right now include food, clothing, cleaning products, school supplies, and starter kits for those being newly housed.

“Our Street Outreach program has also seen a huge increase in the number of people served, many who need warm winter wear, socks, and hygiene products,” said Marc.

All donations that can help keep people safe and warm, whether they are in shelter, are housed or on the street, is greatly appreciated.

To support The Salvation Army, donate online at www.salvationarmy.ca where you can donate to a specific program or location. You can also donate by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY.

By Caroline Franks