Majors Adam and Christine Morales want you to be a Salvation Army Bell Ringer this Christmas Season to help the hungry, homeless, and hopeless in our community. Volunteer to ring the silver bells for The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign at RegisterToRing.com.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. — Major Adam and Christine Morales invite you to volunteer to ring the silver bells for The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign at RegisterToRing.com. The platform helps volunteers find the ideal time and place to help the hungry, homeless, and hopeless in our county.
“Register to Ring will help you find the perfect time and place to ring bells. If you have any questions or want to learn more, visit the site,” Major Adam Morales, San Bernardino Citadel commander said. “Otherwise, get started by selecting one of the three options below.”
Options include volunteering as an individual, possibly with friends or family, or leading or joining a group that rings at multiple times or locations—such as churches, businesses, schools, service clubs, or other organizations. Volunteers can also encourage friends and family to donate via online fundraisers supporting the local Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign.
“We invite community members and organizations to help us raise money to assist the hungry, homeless, and hopeless,” said Major Morales. “This is the Christmas season for our organization, which provides food, toys, hot meals, shelter, and more throughout the region.”
The Salvation Army encourages local colleges, universities, social and service clubs, elected officials, performers, and companies to ring bells at retail locations. Many are signing up now.
Captain Joseph McFee of the San Francisco Salvation Army Corps started the Red Kettle donations in 1891. Major Adam and Christine Morales invite you to volunteer to ring the silver bells for The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign at RegisterToRing.com.
The tradition of Salvation Army kettles during Christmas started in 1891 in San Francisco, founded by Captain Joseph McFee to fund holiday meals for people experiencing poverty. The tradition has since spread worldwide and has been part of San Bernardino’s holiday season since its early years.
Funds raised during the campaign help provide food baskets, toys, and other essentials during Christmas. Donations also support year-round emergency services, including food assistance, shelter, clothing, furniture, children’s programs, rent and mortgage aid, and transportation assistance.
“Every year, The Salvation Army can deliver toys, bicycles, dolls, and more to needy children in our community. Zehara Perry and Katrina Daniel hold a bicycle and a helmet for a needy child,” said Major Morales.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County serves the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, and Running Springs.
“We always need food donations,” said Major Christine Morales. “We serve about 300 meals daily at our homeless shelter, transitional living center, and related programs, and our holiday meals have been a tradition since 1888.”
The Salvation Army welcomes donations of food, clothing, toys, and money. These can be dropped off at the Hospitality House located at 925 W. 10th Street, San Bernardino, or at the Citadel office at 838 Alta Street, in Redlands. Donations can also be made online at SBCSVA.org.
For more information or help, call The Salvation Army at (909) 792-6868.
The Salvation Army, established in San Bernardino in 1888, is one of the world’s largest charitable organizations, supporting those in need without discrimination. As an evangelical Christian church, it offers holistic programs to individuals across multiple communities, including Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Loma Linda, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino, Yucaipa, Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and other mountain communities.
Photo Caption: Majors Adam and Christine Morales as the new Corps officers for The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County, effective immediately.
“The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County already has a reputation for doing great work in the community. So, my wife and I feel very privileged to have been appointed here to take over its leadership and continue to build its work and develop new ways to serve the community,” said Majors Adam Morales.
REDLANDS, Calif. – The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County announces the appointment of Majors Adam and Christine Morales as the new Corps officers, effective July 1, 2025.
Majors’ Morales brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to service. Their previous assignment was serving as Administrators at the Pasadena Adult Rehabilitation Center.
With a shared passion for preaching and serving others, they have ministered together in diverse settings, including as Corps Officers in Glendale, Arizona, and Lurgan, Northern Ireland, and on Divisional Headquarters.
Major Adam has also served as Corps Officer in Ukraine, Director of Humanitarian Aid in the Republic of Georgia, Territorial Finance Secretary in Russia, and Divisional Finance & Business Secretary in the Southwest Division.
“The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County welcomes Majors Adam and Christine Morales to lead the work in San Bernardino County,” said Army Advisory Board chairperson Cindy Amrine, of Ground Hog, Inc. “Their extensive ministry experience, dedication to service, and family life represent the spirit of The Salvation Army. The organization anticipates a positive community impact.”
“The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County already has a reputation for doing great work in the community. So my wife and I feel very privileged to have been appointed here to take over its leadership and continue to build its work and develop new ways to serve the community,” said Majors Adam Morales.
A reception welcoming the majors is set for Thursday, September 18, at The Salvation Army Citadel office at 838 Alta Street, in Redlands, at 6:00 pm. RSVP at: Meet the Majors
Music is a meaningful part of their ministry. Major Adam plays the piano, and Major Christine enjoys singing. The Morales family, including their three teenage children, is committed to their calling with faith, compassion, and joy.
In 2024, The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County served 28,201 people in 25,022 households. Those served include the hungry, homeless, and hopeless in the cities of Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Loma Linda, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino, and Yucaipa, as well as Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and other mountain communities.
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church serving 134 countries and every zip code in the United States. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
The Salvation Army welcomes donations of food, clothing, toys, and money, which can be dropped off at the Hospitality House at 925 W. 10th Street, San Bernardino, or at the Citadel office at 838 Alta Street, in Redlands. Donations can also be made online at SBCSVA.org.
For more information or help, call The Salvation Army at (909) 792-6868.
The Salvation Army is one of the largest charitable and service organizations in the world, serving San Bernardino since 1888, and supports those in need without discrimination.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals without discrimination. They serve the cities of Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Loma Linda, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino, and Yucaipa, as well as Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and other mountain communities.
Photo caption: Garner Holt, the savvy entrepreneur and founder of his Redlands-based company, creates gateways to realms of imagination, artistry, and technical wizardry.
“We are delighted to have Garner Holt as our keynote speaker for this year’s Red Kettle Kickoff,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
REDLANDS, CALIF.— Renowned animatronic creator Garner Holt will deliver the keynote address at the kickoff event for The Salvation Army’s2024 Red Kettle campaign. The “miracle” of Christmas is repeated through the joy of caring and sharing, made real thanks to the ringing of those silver bells.
Earl Perkins Rings the bells to raise funds for The Salvation Army to help the Hungry, Homeless and Hopeless this holiday season. Donations may always be made online at SBCSVA.org.
The nationally recognized shiny Red Kettles are integral to the Christmas scene. In keeping with the season’s spirit, people donate money each year to aid needy families, seniors, and people experiencing homelessness.
Garner Holt, the savvy entrepreneur and founder of his Redlands-based company, creates gateways to realms of imagination, artistry, and technical wizardry. The company’s experienced industry experts produce unmatched, proven-quality creations, including the world’s finest and most lifelike animatronic figures, designs for themed attractions, museums, retail and restaurant locations, and more.
The firm’s Creative Design division team of artists, writers, sculptors, model makers, and other creatives lends their talents to projects, big or small. Garner Holt’s world-class design services have provided clients around the world with memorable displays for theme parks, museums, shopping centers, and fairgrounds.
“I am glad to present my company’s story at this year’s kickoff. Our creative success has always been a community effort. I’m looking forward to sharing what we do every day from San Francisco to Singapore and Anaheim to Amsterdam,” says Holt.
Photo Caption: Advisory Board Chair Cindy Amrine. “Please donate money or volunteer a few hours to help our neighbors in need.”
“Holt is one of many volunteers who donate their time, energy, and money to this annual event. Bell ringers ring two hours at a time, and groups are asked to provide ringers who can work in shifts for an entire day,” said Advisory Board Chair Cindy Amrine. “Anyone wanting to donate a few hours can volunteer.”
“We are delighted to have Garner Holt as our keynote speaker for this year’s Red Kettle Kickoff,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
In 2022-2023 The Salvation Army served 26,013 People, 24,012 households that included 110,768 meals and 12,822 households receiving groceries. The Hospitality House provided 34,761 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness; 2,146 at-risk children participated in educational and recreational programs.
Donations from the Red Kettles help make Christmas a wonderful experience for needy children and families. Funds raised provide holiday food baskets for around 500 local families. A Christmas dinner takes place, historically providing a delicious meal to about 200 people.
“Last Christmas, The Salvation Army provided 650 holiday food baskets to families, and 1,400 children received 5,500toys,” said Major Braga.
The Salvation Army begins ringing its bells this year on Friday, November 16, from 10:00 a.m. through 6:00 p.m. and continues Monday through Saturday until Christmas Eve.
Photo caption: Stater Bros. Markets CEO Pete Van Helden delivered the keynote address at The Salvation Army 2023 Red Kettle Kickoff.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino serves the cities of Bloomington, Calimesa, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Loma Linda, Mentone, Muscoy, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino, and Yucaipa, as well as the mountain communities of Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs.
Donations may always be made online at SBCSVA.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY for local information call (909) 792-6868. Donors may drop off turkeys, hams, other food, cash, or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands, California, 92373.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Citadel
The Salvation Army provides many 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 is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church that offers evangelical programs for boys, girls, and adults. One of the world’s largest charitable and international service organizations, The Salvation Army has existed since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1888, supporting those in need without discrimination. To learn more about the local Salvation Army, go to SanBernardino.SalvationArmy.org. Our local number is (909) 792-6868.
Photo Caption: Majors Isaias & Wife Adelma Braga, Commanders of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino, welcome donors to last year’s Red Kettle Kickoff.
“We held three camps this summer,” says Summer Camp Facilitator Henry Smith II, “and the kids had a ball.”
REDLANDS, CA. — For over 100 years, The Salvation Army has recognized the restorative power of nature. This summer, The Salvation Army San Bernardino Citadel was able to offer three week-long day camps so at-risk children could enjoy fresh air, exercise and make new friend, thanks to the generosity of private donors.
“We held three camps this summer,” says Summer Camp Facilitator Henry Smith II, “and the kids had a ball. We had a camper who was afraid of the pool but signed up for the swimming badge elective. Not only did they conquer their fear of the pool, but they also learned how to swim.
“One homesick camper cried at every meal and campfire for the first two days. They pressed on and were able to overcome their homesickness. By the end of the camp week, they asked if they could return for another week.”
The San Bernardino Citadel organized three camps for 16 participants. Sports Camp ran for one week, Monday through Friday, with two participants. Wilderness Camp ran from Monday through Saturday with two campers. Salvation Army Youth Camp, known as SAY Camp, went from Monday through Friday and had 12 children. All camps took place in Big Bear at Camp Pine Summit.
“One of our cabin leaders shared about a camper that didn’t want to come,” says Smith. “He complained about many of the activities. But during the week, the cabin leader noticed a positive change. The camper passed the swim test, which lifted his spirits. By the end of the week, the camper didn’t want to go home and asked about working at camp next summer.”
These positive changes demonstrate the effectiveness of The Salvation Army’s approach to working with young people. By removing them from urban environments where they are regularly exposed to antisocial influences and introducing them to the world of nature and new activities, they are given the opportunity to experience something different. For many, this is an eye-opening and life-changing experience.
“I truly appreciate The Salvation Army San Bernardino Citadel under the leadership of Majors Isaias and Adelma Braga, and the investment for eternity they have made in the youth of our community,” Smith concludes. “We are also thankful for the trust and cooperation of the parents in allowing us to serve their children.”
For more information, call (909) 792-6868. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1 (800) SAL-ARMY. The local number is (909) 792-6868.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Citadel
The Salvation Army provides many 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 is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church that offers evangelical programs for boys, girls, and adults. One of the world’s largest charitable and international service organizations, The Salvation Army has existed since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by 1-(800) SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 792-6868.
“Robert is passionate about education and its role in strengthening communities,” said Attorney Timothy Prince, Esq, President of the San Bernardino Democratic Luncheon Club.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.– Robert Garcia, the Democratic candidate for California’s 50th Assembly District, is the featured guest speaker at the San Bernardino Democratic Luncheon Club’s July 12th Noon meeting at Juan Polo Restaurant in San Bernardino.
The 50th Assembly District includes the communities of Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, Bloomington, Colton, Ontario, Loma Linda, San Bernardino, Rialto, and Redlands.
Garcia is the son of immigrants and a career educator who was the first in his family to graduate high school. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in biology from UCLA and a master’s in public policy from USC. He taught high school math and science for many years and then moved up to his current position in school administration.
In 2016, voters elected Garcia to the Etiwanda School District Board of Trustees and reelected him in 2020 with 70% of the vote. He served as President of the Board, and during his tenure, the school district earned the California Exemplary District Award twice and National Blue-Ribbon School status for five schools. Robert, his wife Samantha and their three children live in Rancho Cucamonga.
“Robert is passionate about education and its role in strengthening communities. His campaign platform includes fighting to ensure safe neighborhoods, fully funding schools, investing in homelessness reduction, creating good-paying job opportunities while building a sustainable economy, and supporting small businesses across the Inland Empire,” said Attorney Timothy Prince, Esq, President of the San Bernardino Democratic Luncheon Club.
San Bernardino Democratic Luncheon Club meetings start at noon at Juan Pollo Restaurant, 1258 West 5th St., San Bernardino.
For more information or to speak at the San Bernardino Democratic Luncheon Club, contact them online at sbdems.com/?page_id=14.
Established in 1993, the Democratic Luncheon Club of San Bernardino is the most prominent and dynamic Democratic club in the Inland Empire. Our meetings convene most Fridays at Juan Pollo Restaurant, 1258 West 5th St. in San Bernardino, and we extend an open invitation to the public. Each gathering hosts a distinguished speaker who shares compelling news and crucial updates on matters impacting the broader San Bernardino area. Visit our website at sbdems.com for further details.
(San Bernardino, CA) The Salvation Army has been active in the San Bernardino area since the late 1880s. Steve Pinckney with the San Bernardino Corps talks about the many year-round programs and services offered to address hunger, poverty, homelessness and addiction in our community, and the need for donations and volunteers. Learn more at https://sanbernardino.salvationarmy.org or call (909) 792-6868.
The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1888. They support those in need without discrimination. The Salvation Army serves the cities of Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, other mountain communities, Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Yucaipa, Mentone, Redlands, and San Bernardino.
Help The Salvation Army Give Homeless and Needy Children Christmas Presents
“Please support disadvantaged children with a Christmas gift at the Angel Tree by visiting our table in the Inland Center Mall and fulfilling the wishes of a child till December 22nd,” said Major Braga.
(Redlands, Calif.) Giving a toy to a needy child. It is a small gesture but participating in The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree will make this Christmas memorable for you as well as the children in need. Without your help, some children won’t get anything for Christmas.
“Just pick up an Angel Tree tag and buy a needy child the gift listed on the tag! The Angel Tree matches donors with hundreds of children who are relying on The Salvation Army this year to bring them a Merry Christmas,” said Major Adelma Braga, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
The San Bernardino Corps Angel Tree is at Inland Center Mall in San Bernardino, 500 Inland Center Drive in San Bernardino, 92408. Donations received here provide toys to children from 400 disadvantaged families in Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, the mountain communities, Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Yucaipa, Mentone, Redlands, and San Bernardino.
“Please support disadvantaged children with a Christmas gift at the Angel Tree by visiting our table in the Inland Center Mall and fulfilling the wishes of a child till December 22nd,” said Major Issas Braga.
Shoppers find cards attached to the Angel 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 Angel Tree and head for the appropriate store to purchase their gift donations, then return it to the Angel Tree volunteers.
Shoppers get to keep the card as an ornament to hang on their own Christmas tree, reminding them of their good deeds.
“This is a great way to start a tradition with your family, by selecting a gift for a needy child together. The gifts are based on their wishes and for some children, it may be the only gift they receive all year,” said Major Braga.
“Bicycles, board games, and clothes are just a few items on each child’s wish list,” said Major Braga. “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 local people including business owners and managers to help the community and spread the spirit of Christmas.”
For more information on the Angel Tree call Steven Pinckney or visit the tree in the Inland Center Mall in San Bernardino. Donors are asked to drop off turkeys, hams, canned food, cash, checks, or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands, 92373. For more information call (909) 792-6868.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals of all. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world.
The Salvation Army has served San Bernardinosince 1888. The Salvation Army supports those in need without discrimination. The Salvation Army serves the cities of Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, other mountain communities, Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Yucaipa, Mentone, Redlands, and San Bernardino.
Volunteers serve Thanksgiving meals. The annual Thanksgiving meal brings in hundreds of families and individuals who do not have the means to provide themselves with a Thanksgiving dinner. The San Bernardino event serves about 200 people each year.
“We’re serving a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner with turkey, potatoes, gravy, stuffing, vegetables, and pie,” said Naomi Goforth the program director.
REDLANDS, CALIF.— This holiday season the San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army once again holds its annual Thanksgiving dinner to help needy families in San Bernardino.
The San Bernardino Corps will serve dinner from 4:00 P.M to 6:00 pm on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 24, at the Hospitality House & Family Transitional Living Center, 925 W. 10th St., San Bernardino.
“We’re serving a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner with turkey, potatoes, gravy, stuffing, vegetables, and pie,” said Naomi Goforth the program director. “We still need 500 turkeys and many side dishes,” Goforth added. “Whatever people have on their heart to donate, we need.”
The Salvation Army encourages donations of turkey or ham, side dishes, and other food by calling (909) 888-1336 to plan, or to volunteer to help serve the Thanksgiving dinner.
The annual Thanksgiving meal brings in hundreds of families and individuals who do not have the means to provide themselves with a Thanksgiving dinner. People come from all parts of the Inland Empire for the celebration. The San Bernardino event serves about 200 people each year.
Volunteers help prepare the food and serve meals to the families. In recent years, dozens of volunteers have helped the San Bernardino Corps prepare and serve dinner.
“Thanksgiving should be a special day for everyone, not just for those who can afford it,” says Goforth.
Other Salvation Army Corps in the Inland Empire are also planning Thanksgiving dinners, although many of these will take place the day before Thanksgiving. To receive information about the dates and times for the dinners at other corps, or to volunteer please call 1-800-SAL-ARMY or 1-800-725-2769.
Donors are asked to drop off turkeys, hams, canned food, cash, checks, or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands, 92373, for more information call (909) 792-6868.
Volunteers serve Thanksgiving meals. The annual Thanksgiving meal brings in hundreds of families and individuals who do not have the means to provide themselves with a Thanksgiving dinner. The San Bernardino event serves about 200 people each year.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals without discrimination. They serve the cities of Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Loma Linda, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino, and Yucaipa, as well as Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and other mountain communities.
The Salvation Army is one of the world’s largest charitable and service organizations and has been serving San Bernardinosince 1888, supporting those in need.
Photo Caption: Volunteers serve Thanksgiving meals. The annual Thanksgiving meal brings in hundreds of families and individuals who do not have the means to provide themselves with a Thanksgiving dinner. The San Bernardino event serves about 200 people each year.
Earl Perkins Rings the bells to raise funds for The Salvation Army to help the Hungry, Homeless and Hopeless this holiday season.
“This is a wonderful way to help disadvantaged people in our community, simply by volunteering as bell ringers,” said Major Isaias Braga, commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.— The “miracle” of Christmas is repeated through the joy of caring and sharing. The San Bernardino Salvation Army (www.salvationarmyusa.org) seeks volunteers to Keep the Bells Ringing in the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs.
The nationally recognized shiny red kettles are an integral part of the Christmas scene, with lots 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 Isaias Braga, 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 our area.”
The Salvation Army begins ringing its bells this year on Monday November 13th, from 10 am through 6 pm and continues Monday through Saturday until Christmas Eve.
Many volunteers ring two hours at a time, but groups are asked to provide ringers who can work in shifts for an entire day. Anyone who would like to donate a few hours of their time can volunteer. Individuals under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Where does the money raised by the ringing bells in San Bernardino go? The Salvation Army provides emergency services including food, housing for homeless or displaced families, clothing and showers, as well as assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.
“Last Christmas, The Salvation Army provided 650 holiday food baskets to families and 1,400 children received 5,500 toys,” said Braga. On Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army hosts a Christmas Dinner that provides a delicious meal to approximately 300 people. Donations raised by volunteers who Keep the Bells Ringing help make this possible.
To volunteer to Keep the Bells Ringing, call The Salvation Army at (909) 888-1336.
To donate to The Salvation Army online, go to: www.salvationarmyusa.org. To donate by phone call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (800-725-2769).
Photo Caption: Majors Isaias and Adelma Braga welcome donors to The Annual Red Kettle Kickoff. This year’s event is Wednesday, November 15th, at 5:30 pm at the Bear Springs Events Center, 27923 Highland Avenue, Highland, CA 92346. Click here for tickets.
Pete Van Helden – Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, will deliver the keynote address at the kickoff event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle campaign. It all happens on Wednesday, November 15th at 5:30 PM at the Bear Springs Events Center, 27923 Highland Avenue, Highland, CA 92346
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals in need without discrimination. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino and the Inland Empire since 1887. 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 service number is (909) 888-1336.
“All of us who are part of the Hospitality House team love being able to help families, get back in control of their lives.”
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The San Bernardino Salvation Army Hospitality House stands ready to house homeless families and single women who need temporary, stable shelter. Their target population also includes multi-generational families, and single men with children as well.
“The Salvation Army Hospitality House serves as a safe refuge that provides residents with a supportive, caring environment and all the resources they need to deal with a wide variety of personal and/or family problems. It all starts with an emergency shelter that can keep participants safely housed for 30, 60, or 90 days, depending on their circumstances,” says Program Manager Naomi Goforth.
At intake, each new arrival is assessed by trained Salvation Army intake staff. Once the scope of a client’s needs has been determined, each family is given a detailed individualized case plan and assigned to a case manager who will maintain close contact during their entire stay.
Each family’s case plan includes comprehensive goals and objectives that cover their intake, transition to permanent housing, help finding a steady job, legal advocacy, child welfare aid, and education. Every resident is treated as an individual with individual needs and every case is different and gets a customized case plan.
Amanda and her six children are graduates of the Salvation Army Hospitality House. They now live in their apartment
“People who come to Hospitality House may have been sleeping in their cars or were recently released from a hospital. At intake, each new resident gets clothing, bed linens, hygiene products, and a chance to take a breath after whatever ordeal they have just gone through,” says Goforth.
“I didn’t know what I was going to do,” says one recent Hospitality House graduate.
“I’m a single mom and I lost my job during the pandemic. Thank goodness, at least my 15-year-old car was paid off and when we were no longer able to pay rent, that’s where we slept. I heard about Hospitality House from a friend and the people there have helped me find a new job, secure a place to live, and even got me enrolled in a course that’s going to add to my skill set so I can advance in my new-found career.”
Goforth says, “Our residents don’t just sit around and spin their wheels. They actively work on their case plan. Our case managers are good at finding each individual’s motivation to resolve their homelessness and get back on their feet.”
The Salvation Army Hospitality House Program Manager Naomi Goforth
“Sometimes, that may include a referral to one of our partner agencies for things like mental health services, substance use, and legal aid. Whatever they need, we can either provide help in-house or get them connected to the right providers,” says Goforth.
As current resident K.L. notes, “I had a pretty bad rent history and I knew not many landlords would want to take a chance on me, even though I now have a decent job. But the Salvation Army has helped me reestablish a better tenant history and now I have a place lined up to move to when my stay here ends next week.”
In 2023 The Salvation Army served 26,013 people and 24,012 households, serving 110,768 meals, and donating groceries to 12,822 households.
The Hospitality House provided 34,761 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness; 2,146 children participated in educational and recreational programs.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. 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. To donate, call 1-800 SATRUCK.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino serves the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy and Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs.
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For interviews or more information call Carl Dameron
