Anne Metu says she is thankful to the Salvation Army for giving her a platform and encouraging her to pursue her passion for helping people. However, Metu points out that she receives assistance from many areas to make lives better for the San Bernardino underserved through in-kind donations. Metu celebrates her third anniversary as the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps’ Hospitality House Shelter Director in June.
As the director, Metu oversees The Salvation Army and its community partners’ efforts to provide vital services for the Inland Empire’s homeless children and families. In 2014, the shelter at 925 W. Tenth Street, San Bernardino, provides three programs to those in need.
“I keep the community aware of what the Salvation Army is doing,” Metu said. “We cannot help solve the problem of homelessness without community support.”
“Homeless families received 12,464nights of shelter last year. Many supportive services are provided with each night of shelter including: meals, hygiene products, laundry, hot showers, tutoring and case management,” said Metu.
“The people served at The Salvation Army shelter come from all walks of life. The challenges of homelessness touch all ethnic groups and ages. We serve many single parents, families with children, and adult women without children,” said Metu.
The main program offered at Hospitality House is the transitional living program. This allows families and single women for stays up 18 to 24 months while obtaining the life skills necessary for permanent, independent living. With grants from the federal program Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Salvation Army has been able to offer this program since October 2011.
Clients in the transitional living program pay up to 30 percent of their income in rent (this is adjusted based on family size) and save 20 percent to pay for the expenses of securing permanent housing, such as an apartment or a room in someone else’s home.
The 925 W. Tenth Street building also houses the Salvation Army’s original homeless shelter program, an emergency shelter for single women and families. The Salvation Army has been offering this program since the shelter opened in 2010, and did so at other locations for decades before then.
Families can stay up to 90 days in the shelter, provided the adults in the family are actively seeking employment. They must save 75 percent of their income so they have the means to transition to permanent housing as quickly as possible.
“People, for a variety of reasons, come to the shelter with very little,” Metu said. “Many of them need more help than can be provided in 90 days, as such if they qualify, they move to our transitional living program.”
Both shelter programs help the clients with other issues, including developing job skills, resolve legal issues, learn to manage a home budget, and be involved in their child’s education.
Children in both programs have access to tutoring services provided by The San Bernardino County Unified School District. The transitional living program gives the families more time to resolve issues, such as if they need further education or other training to become employable.
In April 2011, the shelter had up to 68 people living there. Of these, about 48 were enrolled in the transitional living program, with the rest enrolled in the emergency shelter program.
The shelter also provides meals to many low-income Inland Empire residents who may not be homeless, but struggle to put food on their own tables. The Salvation Army has provides meals about 200 people on any given day in its long tradition of caring for San Bernardino area residents’ most basic needs.
Providing all of these services is a staff of nine full-time and four part-time employees, which Ms. Metu oversees.
Because the transitional program is financed primarily through HUD grants, there are requirements for reporting how this money is spent. This grant also has to be renewed each year, through a somewhat competitive application process.
The Salvation Army also keeps the San Bernardino area appraised of all its services, primarily through the organization’s Advisory Board, but also through presentations Ms. Metu gives to other organizations in the community. She tells prospective clients what the Salvation Army has to offer.
“I am usually out in the community educating people about what we do. I also pull in clients who I think fit the services we provide.”
The Salvation Army is a member of the San Bernardino County Homeless Partnership Network, a coalition established by the County of San Bernardino to coordinate and improve services provided to the homeless. The coalition works with government agencies, the community and faith-based programs to help Hospitality House clients, homeless people in other shelters, and those who live on the streets.
Ms. Metu came to the United States from Nigeria, settling in Houston, Texas in 1997. She came already familiar with helping others and began her American career with the Council on Alcohol and Drugs Houston, where she worked for six years. While there, Ms. Metu decided to become a chemical dependency counselor. She later moved to the Family Drug Treatment Court in Houston as a coordinator.
“Working in Houston, I noticed a lot of families dealing with both substance abuse and homelessness,” said Metu. “Usually only one person in the family comes forward to receive help. My desire grew, wanting to help the entire family heal, not just that one person. I wanted to do whatever it takes to help them live a normal life and function in society.”
Metu wanted to combine Christian counseling with her passion to battle drugs and substance abuse. She did this in Texas prior to moving to be with her family in San Bernardino in 2010, where she first became involved with the Salvation Army as a volunteer.
“I heard that the Salvation Army was looking for someone to become the director of their Hospitality House,” said Metu. “The opportunity seemed perfect for me, being able to utilize my background of helping others through drug counseling, grant management and administration. I decided to apply for the job, and I got it.”
Metu says she is thankful to the Salvation Army for giving her a platform and encouraging her to pursue her passion for helping people. However, Metu points out that she receives assistance from many areas to make lives better for the San Bernardino underserved through in-kind donations.
“So many people have come together, providing the support we need to do what we can for others,” said Metu.
She is especially grateful for the help of Ms. Brenda Dowdy, homeless education services coordinator for the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools.
“The children receive tutoring from the San Bernardino County Unified School District,” Metu explained. “But Brenda Dowdy provides much more than that. I don’t know what we would do without her services.”
Ms. Dowdy coordinates the tutors’ schedules, provides the homeless students with school supplies, and makes sure these children are able to take part in field trips and other fun outings. She also organizes monthly Resource workshops, in which organizations that can provide services to the families (such as jobs, job training, health care or even free cell phones) come to the shelter to tell the clients about what’s available to them.
“If we have a problem with a child – for instance, or if a child doesn’t have shoes to wear to school – she will take care of that as well,” Metu said.
Other organizations that help meet the needs of the Hospitality House clients include Inland Counties Legal Services, Project Home Again, the Second Harvest Food Bank, Community Action Partnership, Arrowhead United Way, the San Bernardino Women’s Club, Stater Bros Charities, San Manuel Band of Indian Missions, The Soroptimists of San Bernardino, Victory Community Outreach and medical students outreach teams from Loma Linda University.
“This is really a community effort,” says Metu. “I feel privileged to be part of such a wonderful team that is dedicated to helping improve the lives of those who are less fortunate and going through a difficult time.”
For more information call the San Bernardino Hospitality House at (909) 888-4880. Donations can always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY or (909) 888-1336.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY or (909) 888-1336.
-end-
Photo Caption: Anne Metu says she is thankful to the Salvation Army for giving her a platform and encouraging her to pursue her passion for helping people. However, Metu points out that she receives assistance from many areas to make lives better for the San Bernardino underserved through in-kind donations. Metu celebrates her third anniversary as the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps’ Hospitality House Shelter Director in June.
Volunteers help serve 60,475 free, hot, nutritious meals were served to the hungry from The Salvation Army’s homeless shelter, and Sunday through Friday at 4:45 p.m. at the Corps Office on 746 West 5th Street in San Bernardino
(San Bernardino, CA) A $28,000 grant from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has enabled the San Bernardino area Salvation Army serve the needs of thousands of hungry, homeless and hopeless people in San Bernardino, Highland, Rialto, Colton, Grand Terrace and Bloomington.
“San Manuel’s funding supported two major activities that are a part of our Emergency Food and Shelter Program,” said Major Daniel Henderson director of the San Bernardino Area Corps. The two activities include the Salvation Army’s daily food service to the low income and homeless, and our sheltering operation for families.
“It is incredibly uplifting to see, year-after-year, so many people helped by The Salvation Army,” said San Manuel Chairperson Carla Rodriguez. “It is the life-changing power of Yawa’ (Serrano word meaning “to act on one’s beliefs”) that we celebrate with the grant to the Salvation Army.”
“Last year 60,475 free, hot, nutritious meals were served to the hungry from The Salvation Army’s homeless shelter, and Sunday through Friday at 4:45 p.m. at the Corps Office on 746 West 5th Street in San Bernardino,” said Major Henderson.
Salvation Army Major Daniel henderson shares Christmas dinner with a family at he Corps office. A $20,000 Donation from the San Manuel Tribe of Mission Indians helped serve 60,475 Meals to those in need in last year.
“We deliver more than a meal. People in need can also receive prayer, counseling, do their laundry, have a hot shower and use the bathroom. Our daily meals service opens the door for people who want to get off the streets through our shelter programs!” said Major Henderson.
“Homeless families received 12,464nights of shelter last year. Many supportive services are provided with each night of shelter including: meals, laundry, hot showers, tutoring and case management,” said Anne Metu, MILR, CADC-II director of the Transitional Housing Center.
“This is really is a community effort,” says Anne Metu. “I feel privileged to be apart of such a wonderful team that is dedicated to helping improve the lives of those who are less fortunate and going through a difficult time.”
“The people served at The Salvation Army shelter come from all walks of life. The challenges of homelessness touch all ethnic groups and ages. We serve many single parent families with children, and women without children,” said Metu.
Many people believe the Salvation Army shelter only accepts women and children. But that’s not true. “Men are welcome if they are legally married within the family, or they have sole custody of their minor children. We do not accept single men as the need is so great for women, children and families,” said Metu.
The issue of homelessness continues to disrupt many families in the Inland Empire region. These displaced individuals are thrust into living situations that make them vulnerable to many problems.
“Without safety, proper daily rest and food, health begins to decline. Anxiety caused by the uncertainty of finding needed resources causes fatigue, stress, and the break down of vital family relationships,” said Metu.
The Salvation Army works with each homeless or transitional housing client to set up a Self Improvement Plan that will move his or her family toward future independence within a stable independent housing setting.
The San Bernardino County Point-in-Time Counts of homeless people continued to document the high numbers of persons suffering with homelessness in our region. Many more children are included in these counts and homelessness contributes greatly to a child’s poor self-esteem and poor performance in educational areas.
Providing emergency services is not an easy undertaking. Displaced families are vulnerable, scared, and often have attitude and behavioral issues upon arrival at the shelter. “Our front-line strategy is to have competent and caring staff to help new arrivals through the entire shelter process from intake to graduation,” said Metu.
The emergency shelter is a 90-day program. The Salvation Army also offers a 24-month transitional program for which people staying at the shelter are eligible.
During a shelter stay, families must verify that all school age children are enrolled. Parents are given the opportunity meet with a counselor to set up a Self Improvement Plan to prepare them to re-enter an independent living situation.
“Clients must demonstrate their progress daily toward achieving the goals they have set up within the plan. Clients must save a portion of their income while in the shelter to assure that adequate funds will be available upon their departure from the program,” said Major Henderson.
“Our methods are holistic in nature, said Metu. “It is our strategy to help the individual/family access educational resources, health assessments and treatment, and a variety of community based providers.”
“We applaud the Salvation Army that has worked to serve more children and families as needs have grown during the recent recession. We are pleased that our contribution has helped to ease the suffering of so many,” said Rodriguez.
The Salvation Army works closely with many other agencies to achieve reach the goals of our program. Examples include the Arrowhead United Way, SB County and City School Districts, CAP, and many other businesses and organizations.
For more information in the Salvation Army Emergency Shelter call (909) 888-4880. For information about the emergency meals program call (909) 888-1336.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 888-1336.
About the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
The San Manuel Band of Serrano Mission Indians is a federally recognized American Indian tribe located near the city of Highland, Calif. The Serrano Indians are the indigenous people of the San Bernardino highlands, passes, valleys and mountains who share a common language and culture. The San Manuel reservation was established in 1891 and recognized as a sovereign nation with the right of self-government. As an indigenous community the origins and history of the San Manuel Band of Serrano Mission Indians stem from our relationship with the land and to all who share it. Since ancient times we have expressed ourselves through a culture of giving. Today, San Manuel is able to answer the call of Yawa’ (Serrano word meaning “to act on one’s beliefs”) through partnerships with charitable organizations. We have drawn upon our history, knowledge, expertise and cultural values to direct our philanthropic giving in our local region, as well as to Native American causes nationwide. For more information, visit http://www.sanmanuel-nsn.gov.
About San Manuel’s Charitable Giving Program
San Manuel’s charitable giving program supports organizations that provide services in San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. Applications are also accepted from Tribal Governments and Tribal nonprofit organizations throughout the United States. Resources are directed within four areas of program focus to benefit these communities and improve quality of life for adults, children and families. Giving priorities include Education, Health, Economic Development and Special Projects. Applications in each area are considered through the lens of demonstrated community need, and an organization’s capacity to meet that need.
Please mark your calendars and plan to attend our…
10th Annual Fundraiser
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
746 West 5th Street, San Bernardino
The Salvation Army Helps the Hungry, Homeless and Hopeless
Come and meet out new leaders, Major Daniel and Captain Anya Henderson, tour the facility, enjoy a special luncheon, and an exciting lineup of guest speakers! Join with The Salvation Army as we transform lives in our community! Your Support Helps
Feed the Hungry
Provide Emergency Shelter and Transitional Housing for the Homeless
Provide a Path to Properity for Men in Trouble
Provide Family Services
Childrens Programs
Substance Abuse Programs
Counseling and Help with Mental Illness
Your kindness, support and donations are needed to enable us to continue to always be…
Last year the faculty and staff at the Loma Linda School of Allied Health Professions were happy to be able to help with the Giving Tree program. Together they donated more than 100 toys filling the wishes of children in Rialto, Highland, Grand Terrace, Colton, and San Bernardino. To the left of the presents is Debbie Becker and me Kathy Poss. To the right is Shirley Sing (kneeling) and Dana McCree. (photo by Loma Linda School of Allied Health)
The Salvation Army has helped the needy in San Bernardino since 1887
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calf.) It might seem like a very small gesture in the grand scheme of things, but when the local Salvation Army Corps (www.salvationarmyusa.org), local residents and several businesses join forces to make the holiday season memorable for needy children, it makes a huge difference in so many lives.
The Giving Tree, as a portion of this holiday program is known, revolves around actual Christmas trees, which are set up in local malls the day after Thanksgiving. Giving Tree volunteers match shoppers with the hundreds of children who are relying on The Salvation Army this year to bring them a Merry Christmas.
One of these trees is at Inland Center Mall in San Bernardino. It will help the San Bernardino Citadel Corps provide toys to perhaps hundreds of children in San Bernardino, Highland, Grand Terrace, Colton and Bloomington.
“You can support our Giving Tree by visiting our table in the Inland Center Mall from November 29th to December 24th,” said Major Daniel Henderson, Corps officer for the San Bernardino Salvation Army. “Just pick up a Giving Tree tag and buy a gift corresponding to the tag!
Last year, José Gonzalez was a first time volunteer with The Salvation Army, and chose to help the Giving Tree Program at the Inland Center Mall. “It feels good to be volunteering and collecting toys for kids this Christmas,” said Gonzalez. Gonzalez is also a graduate from The Salvation Army’s six month rehabilitation program, and will soon graduate from its Path To Prosperity transitional living program.
This 18 month program is one of a kind, and assists its participants in obtaining the skills they need to become self-supporting and financially independent after overcoming substance abuse. “The Salvation Army has helped me get my life together,” said Gonzalez.
Shoppers wishing to participate in the Giving Tree will find cards attached to the Giving Tree. These cards include the names and wish lists of needy children whose families cannot afford to buy gifts. Shoppers simply pluck a tag off the Giving Tree and head for the appropriate store to purchase their gift donations. Shoppers keep the card as an ornament to hang on their own Christmas tree, reminding them of their good deed.
Larry Rangal, of Highland, donated two toys to the Giving Tree Program last year. Charity has been an ongoing tradition for Rangal since marrying his wife more than 20 years ago.
“This is one of our little quirks. Now that our kids are grown-up and out of the house, we thought we’d provide toys for other children,” said Rangal. “It makes you feel good too.”
Jill Grace, of Highland, was shopping with 3-year-old Allie Chavez when she noticed the Giving Tree and decided to donate two large bags with about 10 toys. “These children are not asking for much,” said Grace. “What child asks for Monopoly, especially nowadays.”
Grace became involved with The Salvation Army more than a decade ago, during the September 11th tragedy. “I have always been a giving person, and I thought to myself ‘how can I help’,” said Grace. By volunteering with The Salvation Army, Grace was able to provide that help. “Me and my husband helped The Salvation Army serve meals to the workers at Ground Zero,” said Grace.
“This is a great way to start a tradition with your own family, by selecting a gift for a needy child together. The gifts are based on their individual wishes and for some children, it may be the only gift they receive all year,” said Capt. Daniel Henderson of the San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army.
“Soccer balls, dolls and clothes are just a few items on each child’s wish list,” said Capt. Henderson. “Shoppers who participate in the program are encouraged to shop for more than what is needed on the list. I can’t think of a better way for business owners and managers to help the community and spread the spirit of Christmas.”
The Salvation Army is looking for other business owners and managers who would like to have a tree at their place of business for employees and/or customers.
To host a Giving Tree in San Bernardino, Colton, Grand Terrace, Rialto, Bloomington or Highland, call (909) 888-1336.
The Riverside Salvation Army has an Angel Program to collect toys for needy kids this Christmas. Toys are collected at The Riverside Salvation Army office located at 3695 1st St., Riverside, CA 92501. To make a donation please call (951) 784-4490, Ext. 100.
The Redlands Salvation Army has Angel Tree tags with the names and wish lists of needy children. Pick-up a tag at The Redlands Salvation Army located at 838 Alta St., Redlands, CA 92374. For more information call, (909) 792-6868.
The Moreno Valley Salvation Army collects toy donations through its Angel Tree program. The Angel Tree is located at the Moreno Valley Mall, 22500 Town Circle Suite 1206, Moreno Valley, CA 92553. Toys are collected until December 22nd, Monday through Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and all day on Saturday. For more information call (951) 653-9131.
The Victor Valley Salvation Army collects toy donations at its office located at 14585 La Paz Drive, Victorville, CA 92395. To make a donation please call (760) 245-2545.
The Ontario Salvation Army collects toys at its office located at 1412 South Euclid Ave., Ontario, CA 91762. To make a donation please call (909) 986-6748.
About The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church, and also offering holistic programs for people of all ages. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 888-1336.
Salvation Army Major Butch Soriano just set a new world record for the longest continuous hand bell-ringing by an individual but fell $7,000 short of his $10,000 goal.
Short Christmas Season And Unseasonable Cold Weather Are Likely Factors
(San Bernardino, CA) In 2012, The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign raised $43,915.48 here in the San Bernardino Area, but so far this year donations are down by 16.5%. Kettle gifts stay in the community where the money is donated and help provide meals and shelter for families in need, Christmas toys for thousands of children locally, and many other services throughout the year.
This year, because of a late Thanksgiving date, the kettle season is shorter by five vital days — which equates to potentially $10,000 less than in previous years — so donations coming in between now and the end of the year are critically important to The Salvation Army’s ability to meet needs here in The San Bernardino area. Five fewer bell-ringing days equates to about $20 million less in donations to The Salvation Army nationwide.
Additionally, below freezing temperatures and inclement weather are a risk to our bell ringers’ health and safety and put a damper on donations by passersby. During particularly unseasonable weather, The Salvation Army sometimes must opt not to put the kettles out, even though it means less donations during the critical “giving season.” A few days of bad weather this year have already put The Salvation Army’s fundraising campaign even further behind.
“I am very concerned about the lost kettle days this year and how this will impact our ability to help those who are hurting. The red kettles are a symbol of giving and represent a tradition of caring that is passed down from generation to generation. We’re hoping that shoppers will remember their neighbors in need when they see a Salvation Army bell ringer in the community during the coming three weeks and be as generous as they can to help,” said Major Daniel Henderson, San Bernardino Area Corps commander.
The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino. For help or for more information call The Salvation Army at (909) 888-1336.
The Salvation Army asks everyone who can to donate generously to any Red Kettle found at your favorite stores, in order to make up the shortfall. Donations can also be mailed to 746 West 5th Street, San Bernardino, CA or called into 1 800 SAL ARMY.
Gifts of food and stock are always welcome, too. Please call (909) 888-1336 for more information about how to donate appreciated stock.
The public’s support will help ensure that The Salvation Army can continue to do the most good for those in need this holiday season and throughout the year.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food, lodging for homeless or displaced families, clothing and furniture, and assistance with rent or mortgage when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. About 82 cents of every dollar raised is used directly to support these services and more where needed most in over 5,000 communities throughout the U.S.
The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 888-1336.
Salvation Army Board member Carl Dameron rings the bells with his family. Left to right: Malaika, Carl and Shaila. Salvation Army board members ring the bells every year to support the Salvation Army’s mission. Photo by Ricard Tomboc
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) The “miracle” of Christmas is repeated over and over again through the joy of caring and sharing. The San Bernardino Salvation Army (www.salvationarmyusa.org) is seeking volunteers to ring bells in Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino.
The nationally recognized shiny red kettle is an integral part of the Christmas scene, with millions of dollars donated each year to aid needy families, seniors, and the homeless, in keeping with the spirit of the season.
“This is a wonderful way to help disadvantaged people in our community, simply by volunteering as bell ringers,” said Major Stephen Ball, commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino. “We’re looking for individuals, families and groups to spend a day at one of our more than 30 locations in the San Bernardino area.”
The Salvation Army began ringing its bells this year on Friday, Nov. 16th and continues from 10 a.m. through 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday until Christmas Eve.
Anyone who would like to donate a few hours of his or her time can volunteer. However, a parent or guardian must accompany individuals under the age of 16. Most volunteers ring two hours at a time, but groups are asked to provide ringers who can work in shifts for an entire day.
“The more people who volunteer, the fewer people the agency must hire,” said Major Ball “For each volunteer bell ringer we have, it means more money raised in direct support of our services to those families in need.”
This year, the Sierra del Mar Divisional Headquarters of the Salvation Army has already helped its San Bernardino chapter with a “bell-ringing marathon.” Major Butch Soriano, the divisional finance secretary, came to the Colton Wal-Mart on Tuesday, Dec. 3. From 9 a.m. that day until 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, he rang the bell for 105 hours straight, raising a total of $2,696.42 for the San Bernardino Corps.
Salvation Army Major Butch Soriano just set a new world record for the longest continuous hand bell-ringing by an individual but fell $7,000 short of his $10,000 goal.
The Salvation Army was holding a competition amongst its officers and members to see who could ring the bell the longest. Major Soriano ended his service in a three-way tie for first place, along with another Salvation Army officer in Minnesota and a member in Texas.
Major Soriano not only braved the cooler temperatures and on the final day, rain to serve his division. He also began his service by driving more than 100 miles from his office in San Diego to the San Bernardino Corps headquarters.
The divisional officer said he did it to bring attention to a Salvation Army location that’s doing great things that may not be as highly noticed as what corps in larger cities do.
“There tends to be a lot of focus on the metropolitan areas like San Diego and Los Angeles,” Major Soriano said. “But I know San Bernardino does a lot of great things, so I wanted to bring the public awareness of them.”
Where does the money raised by Major Soriano and the hundreds of others ringing bells in San Bernardino go? For Christmas, the Salvation Army creates holiday food baskets for more than 600 local families. On Christmas Day, The Salvation Army of San Bernardino hosts a Christmas Dinner that historically provides a beautiful meal to 300 people. Donations raised by bell ringers help make this possible.
“The San Bernardino Corps also needs food every day for those at its Hospitality House transitional shelter,” said Major Ball. Up to 75 family members stay in its transitional and emergency family shelters.
The Salvation Army also needs food daily for up to 200 people who receive a free dinner served six nights a week. Approximately 40,000 meals are served annually from the Army’s kitchen located at 746 W. 5th Street in San Bernardino.
Feeding the hungry is just one of the ways money donated to The Salvation Army helps. The Salvation Army also helps provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
To volunteer as a bell ringer in Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino, call The Salvation Army at (909) 888-1336.
In addition, one may donate to The Salvation Army online, through the website www.salvationarmyusa.org. Donors may specify to which branch of The Salvation Army the money should be sent.
How the Bell Ringer campaign began:
Captain Joseph McFee, serving with the San Francisco Salvation Army Corps in 1891, wanted to serve Christmas dinner to the poor in his neighborhood. But he didn’t have money to do so.
As a sailor in Liverpool, England, Captain Mcfee saw people on the docks throw money into a large kettle called “Simpson’s Pot” to help the poor. He decided this might work in California too.
Captain Mcfee set up a kettle at the Oakland Ferry Landing, which operated a ferry that was, in those days, the only way across San Francisco Bay. He put a sign on the kettle saying, “Keep the Pot Boiling” and raised enough money to serve the Christmas dinner.
His idea spread quickly, and by 1897 Salvation Army Corps nationwide were collecting money in kettles to serve the needy in their communities. Among the Salvation Army Corps collecting money this way before the turn of the Twentieth Century was The Salvation Army of San Bernardino, which formed in 1887.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers holistic programs for individuals of all. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 888-1336.
For more info, check www.abovegroundfun.com.
Collecting food for the hungry: Back row left to right Scout Leader Charles Price, Stater Bros. Manager Jorge Moreno, Stone Price, Austin Price, Lucus Compagna, Scout Leader Anne Compagna. Front left William Anderson, and front right Jason Bun.
(SAN BERNARDINO, CA.) Boy Scouts from the Inland Empire helped The Salvation Army’s San Bernardino Corps feed hungry people by collecting more than five-and-a-half tons of food over two weekends.
“That is a lot of food, but we need it,” said Major Daniel Henderson, Corps Officer. “We will be using this food primarily in the gift boxes we’ll give to area families in need at Christmas, but it will also help supplement our daily meal program, including special holiday meals we are serving on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.”
By standing in front of Stater Bros. stores on Nov. 2 and Nov. 9, the Boy Scouts collected 11,004 lbs. of food. Although this is the first they’ve actually weighed it, it may not be the first year they’ve collected this month. They have collected tons of food for the Salvation Army and other charities with meal programs for the past several years.
“There are a lot of needy people out there, so it may not go far, but hopefully it will help,” said Denise Wampole, Inland Empire Scouting for Food Coordinator.
Boy Scouts from San Bernardino, Rialto, Colton, Highland, Grand Terrace, Fontana, and Bloomington collected food for the Salvation Army. They were participating in a nationwide event the Boy Scouts of America calls “Scouting for Food.”
Each Scouting for Food drive benefits a local charity. For instance, not only did troops from San Bernardino and nearby communities collect food for the Salvation Army, a troop from Lake Arrowhead that is part of the same Arrowhead District as those helping the Salvation Army collected food for a shelter in Blue Jay.
The San Bernardino Salvation Army will put the food to good use. On Thanksgiving Day, it hosts a Thanksgiving Dinner that often brings in 300 people. Although much of the food served at that dinner is fresh, some of the non-perishable items the Boy Scouts collect may be included.
In December, the San Bernardino Corps assembles holiday food baskets for more than 600 local families. Canned food donations received from the Boy Scouts will be included in those baskets. In addition to the holiday baskets, a delicious Christmas Dinner is served on Christmas Day to those in need.
And if there’s still any of the five-and-a-half tons of food left over after Christmas, the San Bernardino Corps also needs food every day for up to 75 people at its Hospitality House homeless shelter and up to 200 people who receive a free dinner served six nights a week at its 746 W. Fifth Street location. More than 40,000 meals are served annually at the Fifth Street location.
The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino. For help or for more information call The Salvation Army at (909) 888-1336.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 888-1336.
San Bernardino-area members of the Boy Scouts have a history of community service, such as volunteering at a Salvation Army Thanksgiving dinner. Photo by Ricardo Tombac.
More than 100 community members vollenteer and served Thanksgiving Dinner at the Salvation Army Corps.
For three years in a row these young ladies have volunteered and served Thanksgiving Dinner at the Salvation Army Corps.
Ben and Terry volunteered and served Thanksgiving Dinner at the Salvation Army Corps.
Sandy and Mike volunteered and served Thanksgiving Dinner at the Salvation Army Corps.
Farmer Bros employees volunteered and served Thanksgiving Dinner at the Salvation Army Corps.
(San Bernardino, Calif.) This Thanksgiving, the San Bernardino Corps of the Salvation Army will once again provide Thanksgiving dinner to help needy families of the Inland Valley.
The San Bernardino Corps will serve dinner from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 28 at its Corps headquarters building on 746 West Fifth St.
“Times are really tough for everyone, especially at this time of year when people really need an extra hand to get them through the holiday season,” said Major Daniel Henderson, San Bernardino Corps officer. “We have a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner planned, complete with turkey, potatoes, gravy, stuffing, vegetables and pie, and all are welcome to join us.”
The annual Thanksgiving meal brings in hundreds of families, single mothers with children and individuals who do not have the means to provide themselves a Thanksgiving dinner. People come from throughout the Inland Valley for this Thanksgiving dinner, which often serves close to 300 people each year.
The hungry families are joined by hundreds of volunteers who help prepare the food and serve meals to the families. Along with asking volunteers to help serve food, the Salvation Army is encouraging people to donate turkeys or hams, side dishes and other food by calling (909) 888-1336.
“An effort of this size is not a one person show,” said Major Henderson. “Volunteers are needed to help prepare and serve the food along with decorating the facility. It truly is a community effort in making this event a success. Thanksgiving should be a special day for everyone, not just for those who can afford it.”
For more information about this Thanksgiving dinner, donations or volunteering for The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps, call (909) 888-1336.
Other Salvation Army Corps in the Inland Valley are also planning Thanksgiving dinners. Dates, times and locations are as follows:
Location
Phone
Date
Time
Salvation Army Riverside
3695 1st St.,
Riverside, CA 92501(951) 784-4490Nov. 2711:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.Salvation Army Redlands
838 Alta St.,
Redlands, CA 92374(909) 792-6868Nov. 281:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.Salvation Army Moreno Valley
14075 Frederick St.,
Moreno Valley, CA 92553(951) 653-9131Nov. 2811:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.Salvation Army Ontario
1412 South Euclid Ave.,
Ontario, CA 91762(909) 986-6748Nov. 2810:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.Salvation Army Victor Valley 14585 La Paz Drive, Victorville, CA 92395(760) 245-2545Nov. 2811:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.Salvation Army Victor Valley/James A. Woody Community Center
13467 Navajo Road,
Apple Valley, CA 92308(760) 240-7880Nov. 2811:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.Salvation Army Corps Hemet/Valle Vista Assembly of God
45252 E. Florida Ave.,
Hemet, CA 92544(951) 791-9495Nov.
2811:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination.
The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 888-1336.
Last year the Boy Scouts helped collect tons of food. West Highland Stater Bros. SB: Troop 836 SB Elks Lodge Front row: Alejandro Padilla, Carlos Rivas, Jovanni Bello, Jennifer Lister (Scout Master) Back row: Bryan Padilla Jordan Padilla. photo by Richardo Tomboc
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) On Saturday, Nov. 9th local Boy Scout troops do a good deed for the Salvation Army and its efforts to feed hungry people.
Boy Scouts from San Bernardino, Rialto, Colton, Highland, Grand Terrace, and Bloomington will help collect food for the Salvation Army. Major Daniel Henderson, of The Salvation Army’s San Bernardino Corps, estimates about 13 troops will be helping to raise food for the local Salvation Army. They are participating in a nationwide event the Boy Scouts of America calls “Scouting for Food.”
Each Scouting for Food drive benefits a local charity. For instance, troops within the Arrowhead District serve the San Bernardino County mountain communities, and will take their food to a shelter in Blue Jay.
On Thanksgiving Day, the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps hosts a Thanksgiving Dinner that often brings in 300 people. Although much of the food served at that dinner is fresh, some of the non-perishable items the Boy Scouts collect may be included.
In December, the San Bernardino Corps assembles holiday food baskets for more than 600 local families. Canned food donations received from the Boy Scouts will be included in those baskets. In addition to the holiday baskets, a delicious Christmas Dinner is served on Christmas Day for those in need.
The San Bernardino Corps also needs food every day for those at its Hospitality House homeless shelter. Up to 75 family members can stay in its transitional and emergency family shelters.
The Salvation Army also needs food daily for up to 200 people who receive a free dinner served six nights a week. Approximately 40,000 meals are served annually from the Army’s kitchen located at 746 West 5th Street in San Bernardino.
The Boy Scouts will be receiving food donations at these Stater Bros. Store Locations:
11225 Sierra Ave., Fontana, CA 92335
18140 Arrow Route, Fontana, CA 92335
571 East Foothill Blvd., Rialto, CA 92376
161 East 40th Street, San Bernardino, CA 92404
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Service Team assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the most effective charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 888-1336.
Breaking Ground on the new Pacific Street Corps: left to right: Salvation Army Advisory Boardmember Kristine Scott, Field Representative for San Bernardino County Supervisor James Ramos, John Futch, Bill Leman, San Bernardino Mayor Patrick Morris, Salvation Army Advisory Boardmember Brian Cronin, Lt. Kathleen Griffins, new Corps Officer Capt. Anaya Henderson, new Corps Officer Major Dan Henderson, Division Commander Major Lee Lescano, San Bernardino Valley Community College District Trustee Dr. Kathleen (Katy) Henry, Salvation Army Advisory Boardmember Jack Katzman, California State Assemblymember Cheryl Brown, Salvation Army Advisory Boardmember, Tom Brickley.
(San Bernardino, CA) “This city is in desperate need of the services The Salvation Army provides,” San Bernardino Mayor Patrick Morris told the hundred people gathered for the ground breaking of a new center on October 10, 2013.
The Salvation Army is remodeling a former school at 2626 E. Pacific Avenue in Highland with a vision of expanding youth programs, daily meals, spiritual support for program graduates, worship services and other life-enriching programs to help the San Bernardino area.
The Army will continue its many services in the downtown San Bernardino area to those in need at its other locations: the Transitional Living Center, Family Emergency Lodge and Path to Prosperity. Meals, food distribution and other services for those in need will continue out of the center at 746 5th until the new center opens then will move to 925 W. 10th Street.
The many civic leaders who presented certificates of appreciation to The Salvation Army conveyed a remarkably wide and deep knowledge of the work and mission of The Salvation Army. Each, from Assemblymember Cheryl Brown, Mayor Pat Morris, and the offices of Councilmember Wendy McCammack, U.S .Congressmember Gary Miller, Senator Bill Emmerson, Assemblymember Mike Morrell, County Supervisor James Ramos, San Bernardino Valley Community College District Trustee Dr. Kathleen (Katy) Henry and other entities, expressed gratitude for the thousands of good citizens who are graduates of Salvation Army programs, and who are now giving back, contributing to the community and even helping restore other lives.
Carl M. Dameron master of ceremonies and Salvation Army board member and David Morgan field representative for California State Senator Bill Emmerson
Many speakers thanked and praised retired Majors Russell and Jacque Fritz and former Corps leaders Majors Steve and Nancy Ball for the important work they had done.
Salvation Army Divisional Commander Major Lee Lescano thanked the San Bernardino Advisory Board, led by Mr. Tom Brickley, for their diligent work and tireless energy leading, the community and the Army to this point. He also welcomed and formally presented the new San Bernardino Citadel Corps Administrators and Pastors Officers Major Daniel Henderson and Captain Anya Henderson, the administrators and pastors for the Army’s work in San Bernardino.
“We are passionate and excited to be part of the revitalization of our community,” says Major Daniel Henderson, Salvation Army San Bernardino Administrator, Pastor and Corps Officer. “We see potential everywhere and believe a bright future is ahead of us. Changed people change communities!”
California Assemblymember Cheryl Brown presents a certificate to Major Dan Anderson new Corps member for the San Bernardino area office.
Since 1887, The Salvation Army in San Bernardino has helped those in need overcome life’s challenges. Its current service area is San Bernardino, Highland, Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace and Rialto.
California Assemblymember Cheryl Brown presents a certificate to Captain Anya Henderson new Corps member for the San Bernardino area office.
For more information call (909) 888-1336.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the most effective charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1878 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination.
The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Donations should reference the San Bernardino Corps. Our local number is (909) 888-1336.
CORPS Officers Major Dan andCapt. Anya Henderson
