William Booth’s final speech inspiration for new ad

Winnipeg, MB – Just over 100 years ago, William Booth, founder of The Salvation Army, gave his last speech to a crowded Royal Albert Hall in London, England.  In this final speech, he summed up his 60 year ministry with these words:

“While Women weep, as they do now, I’ll fight; while children go hungry, as they do now I’ll fight; while men go to prison, in and out, in and out, as they do now, I’ll fight; while there is a poor lost girl upon the streets, while there remains one dark soul without the light of God, I’ll fight, I’ll fight to the very end!”

Three months later, the founder of The Salvation Army passed away.  William Booth’s final speech still holds true in the vision of The Salvation Army today.  His final speech serves as the inspiration for the Prairie Division’s newest television commercial – “I’ll Fight”.

“William Booth’s words still resonate today in the programs and services we offer,” states Jonathan Hamel, Communication and Marketing Coordinator for The Salvation Army Prairie Division. “For many, the struggle for social justice seems very much like a fight.  Day in and day out they strive to overcome such things as poverty, hunger, addiction and violence.  The Salvation Army stands on the front lines with these people, fighting for them and alongside them.”

In the Prairie Division, The Salvation Army provides over 100 programs and services that give hope and restore dignity to our communities.  These programs and services include emergency shelters for individuals and families, addictions and rehabilitation services, after school homework clubs that serve food to children who may otherwise go hungry, youth drop-in centres that help youth at risk, as well as shelter and assistance for vulnerable women.

“Each year The Salvation Army support over 200 vulnerable and at risk women who turn to us to protect, support and empower them in our women’s shelters,” explains Hamel. “We reach out to more than 4300 youth through our lunch programs and homework clubs. We also provide emergency shelter and food to more than 11,000 individuals without a home. Poverty is a scourge on society that puts dignity out of reach.  The Salvation Army believes that the fight against poverty deserves our individual and corporate attention.”

This new commercial will air on CTV and Citytv in the province of Manitoba.  You can also view the spot online on our YouTube channel.  It invites concerned citizens and supporters to stand with The Salvation Army in the fight for social justice. Make your donation today by calling 1.800.Sal.Army or at www.salvationarmy.ca/donate.