Major Tim Sheehan, State Coordinator for Delaware, discussed the many unsung programs offered by the Salvation Army. While we often think of them as emergency relief, after-school music lessons and senior center, they offer a wide range of programming throughout the year.

The Salvation Army Developmental Disabilities Program has served adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities for over 42 years with a Residential Program and Day Services, 100 staff members work toward helping them be a part of our community and achieving their potential. For children The Early Childhood Learning Center provides quality affordable child care for 120 children ages six weeks to four years. They offer developmentally appropriate learning activities to promote physical, social, emotional and cognitive skills. Older children can attend an After-School program with fun and educational activities.

Adults are served by programs that help them regain their independence. The Salvation Army operates a 78-bed facility for men and women who have completed a drug and/or alcohol detox program and are ready to put their lives back in order.   The program includes physical fitness, work therapy, individual and group counseling.  They also continue to be a driving force in the fight against Human Trafficking, Restoration Now provides survivors with non-judgmental housing, employment services, trauma support, even court accompaniment.

Major Sheehan reminded that their emergency housing, food relief and disaster services are always available and we discussed the growing need for support as the cost of living goes up and rent controls disappear.

The Salvation Army depends on the support of the community and he notes that eighty-two cents of every dollar donated to The Salvation Army goes directly to funding Salvation Army initiatives. A $25 donation to The Salvation Army helps provide a child in need a safe place to stay and $50 donation helps feed 39 hungry Delawareans in your community. A $100 donation to The Salvation Army can provide three nights of shelter for someone in need.
To learn more about the programs and opportunities offered buy the Salvation Army Delaware go to SALVATIONARMYDE.org