Photo caption: Salvation Army Captains Steve and Daylene Staneart are thrilled to be back at The Salvation Army’s San Bernardino Adult Rehabilitation Center.
Each year, thousands of ARC graduates transform their lives, reunite with families, and bring hope to communities across the country. Services are offered on a charitable basis, generally at no cost, and without the need for insurance.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. — Salvation Army Captains Steve and Daylene Staneart are thrilled to be back in San Bernardino after a five-year absence. Captains Staneart served in San Bernardino in 2020, serving in the same role as Administrators of The Salvation Army’s San Bernardino Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC).
“We get a front row seat as God takes a man who has lost all to his addiction. We get to see as his brain clears from the fog and he can think again, then as his heart clears and he can love again. There is nothing quite like giving a father back to his children or a son back to his mother who had lost all hope.” Captain Steve said.
The Salvation Army operates the largest and most successful network of Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARCs) in the nation. For over 100 years, The Salvation Army has provided spiritual, emotional, and social assistance to individuals who have struggled to cope with life’s challenges.
The Salvation Army’s 80+ ARCs are primarily funded by the sale of donated goods in thrift stores. Each year, thousands of ARC graduates transform their lives, reunite with families, and bring hope to communities across the country. Services are offered on a charitable basis, generally at no cost, and without the need for insurance.
The Staneart’s have been with The Salvation Army since 1998, serving in such diverse places as Montana, Utah, Idaho, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and, of course, San Bernardino. They have run churches, food banks, housing programs, daycares, meal programs, and a host of other ministries in The Salvation Army.
In addition, they have worked for medical nonprofits, Habitat for Humanity, various churches and even Campus Crusade for Christ, beginning their vocational ministry right here at the old Campus Crusade Headquarters at Arrowhead.
Of all the ministries they have led, their absolute favorite is The Salvation Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) said Captain Steve.
The Stanearts’ grew up in Oregon, moving to California for the first time when Captain Steve joined the Navy in 1984. They have been married for 41 years, have three grown daughters and eight grandchildren.
When not at the ARC, Captain Steve enjoys hiking and playing piano. Captain Daylene reads, crochets, and designs tiny houses. Together they enjoy live theatre and traveling.
Captain Daylene added, “The Salvation Army Thrift Stores across the West have a consistent goal, as the stores help fund Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARCs), which provide housing, life skills training, and support for adults seeking a fresh start.”
Photo caption: Salvation Army Captains Steve and Daylene Staneart are thrilled to be back at The Salvation Army’s San Bernardino Adult Rehabilitation Center. The men’s rehab is primarily funded by the sale of donated goods in thrift stores.
The Salvation Army operates the largest and most successful network of Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARCs) in the nation. For over 100 years, The Salvation Army has provided spiritual, emotional, and social assistance to individuals who have struggled to cope with life’s challenges. The Salvation Army’s 80+ ARCs are primarily funded by the sale of donated goods in thrift stores. Each year, thousands of ARC graduates transform their lives, reunite with families, and bring hope to communities across the country. Services are offered on a charitable basis, generally at no cost, and without the need for insurance. For more information, visit http://sanbernardinoarc.salvationarmy.org.
Kulman 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.”
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The San Bernardino Salvation Army Hospitality House is ready to provide temporary, stable shelter to homeless families and single women. 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 Kulman.
At intake, each new arrival is assessed by trained staff from The Salvation Army. Once the scope of a client’s needs has been determined, each family is provided with a detailed, individualized case plan and assigned to a case manager who will maintain close contact throughout their entire stay.
Each family’s case plan includes comprehensive goals and objectives that cover their intake, transition to permanent housing, help in finding a steady job, legal advocacy, child welfare aid, and education. Every resident is treated as an individual with unique needs, and every case is different, receiving a customized case plan.
Homeless Family with six children reunited at The Salvation Army Hospitality House (Carl M. Dameron)
“People who come to Hospitality House may have been sleeping in their cars or have been recently released from a hospital. At the intake interview, 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 Kulman.
“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. 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 newfound career.”
Kulman 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.”
“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 Kulman.
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.”
To speak with a Hospitality House representative, call (909) 888-4880 or visit the website at SBCSVA.com.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps 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.
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: The Salvation Army team sets up a new 10,000-square-foot retail space in Chino, offering an accessible shopping and donation experience in one of the city’s busiest commercial corridors. The address is 5250 E. Philadelphia St., Suite M, Chino, CA 91710. Doors open at 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
“Each donation and each purchase help The Salvation Army do more than fund ARC recovery programs—they inspire possibility,” said Major Donald Sheppard, Administrator for Development at The Salvation Army San Bernardino ARC
Chino, CA – The Salvation Army announces the grand opening of a new Chino Thrift Store at 5250 E. Philadelphia St., Suite M, Chino, CA 91710. Doors open at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 8, 2025. “The expansive 10,000-square-foot retail space will offer an accessibleshopping and donation experience in one of Chino’s busiest commercial corridors,” said Major Donald Sheppard, Administrator for Development at The Salvation Army San Bernardino ARC.
According to Sheppard, the Chino location will employ 16 team members. This is one of six retail locations, including five thrift stores and one thrift outlet, supporting the life-changing work of The Salvation Army San Bernardino Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC).
The ARC’s 122-bed residential program provides housing, counseling, and work therapy to men seeking recovery and a fresh start. Established in 1991, the San Bernardino ARC has served the Inland Empire community for 34 years.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the Chino community into this new space where every item purchased or donated contributes to restoring lives,” said Sheppard. “This store is more than just a place to shop—it’s a hub for hope and transformation.”
Photo Caption: “Treasure hunters, budget-conscious families, and sustainability-minded shoppers alike will find something special on every visit,” said Sheppard
The new thrift store will offer a variety of gently used clothing, accessories, furniture, home goods, and more—all at affordable prices. “Treasure hunters, budget-conscious families, and sustainability-minded shoppers alike will find something special on every visit,” said Sheppard.
To celebrate opening day, customers can enter to win a $100 gift certificate and enjoy surprise prize giveaways throughout the day.
In addition to providing great deals, the Chino Thrift Store aims to strengthen its ties with the community by working with local creatives, sustainability advocates, and social influencers to highlight eco-conscious shopping and innovative upcycling ideas.
“Each donation and each purchase helps The Salvation Army do more than fund ARC programs—they inspire possibility. Together, we’re turning secondhand into second chances.
Come celebrate the grand opening with us—discover unique finds, support your community, and be part of the mission to transform lives through the restoration of mind, body, and soul,” said Sheppard.
San Bernardino County Salvation Army Thrift stores are in Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino, Fontana, Victorville, Hesperia, and now Chino.
Photo caption: The new signs are not up yet, and work inside is getting done. The address is 5250 E. Philadelphia St., Suite M, Chino, CA 91710. Doors open at 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
The Salvation Army operates the largest and most successful network of Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARCs) in the nation. For over 100 years, The Salvation Army has provided spiritual, emotional, and social assistance to individuals who have struggled to cope with life’s challenges. The Salvation Army’s 80+ ARCs are primarily funded by the sale of donated goods in thrift stores. Each year, thousands of ARC graduates transform their lives, reunite with families, and bring hope to communities across the country. Services are offered on a charitable basis, generally at no cost, and without the need for insurance. For more information, visit WesternARC.SalvationArmy.org.
“We work with the City of Redlands side-by-side on the City’s streets to find and help unhoused individuals and families get settled into permanent housing,” said Salvation Army San Bernardino Citadel Commander Major Isaias Braga.
Photo Caption: About The Salvation Army in San Bernardino County
The City of Redlands presented a grant for $1,354,487. “We work with the City of Redlands side-by-side on Redlands’ streets to find and help unhoused individuals and families get settled into permanent housing,” said Salvation Army San Bernardino Citadel Major Isaias Braga. As a result, 169 people now have a permanent place to live and call home.
PHOTO CAPTION: The City of Redlands presented a check for $1,354,487 in grant funds to the San Bernardino Citadel of The Salvation Army at the Red Kettle Kickoff Event on November 12th. Left to Right: Lt. Colonel Mike Dickinson, Divisional Commander; David Rabindranath, Homeless Solutions Manager for the City of Redlands; Mario Saucedo, Redlands Council Member; Major Adelma Braga, and Major Isias Braga, San Bernardino Salvation Army Citadel Commanders.
The City of San Bernardino emerged as the next largest contributor, demonstrating remarkable resolve amid its fiscal challenges. In a spirit of giving, the City proudly presented a generous grant of $319,141.55 to the Salvation Army, presented by its devoted mayor, Helen Tran, City Manager and councilmember-elect Treasure Ortiz, and members of the City’s homeless outreach team.
PHOTO CAPTION: The City of San Bernardino presented a check for $319,141.55 in grant funding to the San Bernardino Citadel of the Salvation Army. This will help fund programs that benefit needy individuals and families in the Inland Empire. Left to right: Southern California Divisional Director of Development and Communication Peter Irwin; Lt. Colonel Mike Dickinson, Divisional Commander; Councilmember-elect Treasurer Ortiz; City Manager Rochelle Clayton; Mayor Helen Tran; Assistant to the City Manager Corey Hodges; Housing Division Manager Trina Perez; and Homeless Services Coordinator Gabriela Leon.
Stater Bros. Charities, a valued partner of the Salvation Army, has generously donated $75,000. This contribution will support vital food donation initiatives and sit-down meal programs designed for the region’s underserved and under-resourced communities. Thanks to the Salvation Army’s dedicated efforts, individuals and families now have access to healthy meals that they may not have been able to afford otherwise, bringing hope and nourishment to those in need.
PHOTO CAPTION: Stater Bros. presented a check for $75,000, $15,000 for the San Bernadino Citadel, and $60,000 to other Salvation Army corps to help fund food giveaways and sit-down meals for needy individuals and families in the Inland Empire. From left are Southern California Divisional Director of Development and Communication Peter Irwin, SVA Lt. Colonel Mike Dickinson, Tasso Panos, Stater Bros. Markets Store Manager, Loni Maxfield Stater Bros. Charities Coordinator, Nancy Negrette, Stater Bros. Charities Chairman and President and SVA Majors Adelma and Isaias Braga.
As Thanksgiving and Christmas rapidly approach, the Salvation Army needs donations of hams, canned food, cash, checks, or gift cards to support its holiday meal programs. Donors can visit the Salvation Army’s Citadel Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands, CA 92373, or give online at SBCSVA.org.
To register to help ring the bells at a local store location, volunteer to help at the Angel Tree location in the Inland Center Mall, distribute toys and food, or serve sit-down meals, please call (909) 792-6868.
Photo Caption: A slide show of photos taken at the Red Kettle Kickoff
The Salvation Army is an evangelical branch of the Universal Christian Church that offers holistic programs without discrimination to individuals. It serves 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. It has been serving San Bernardino since 1888 and supporting those in need.
“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.
CAPTION: Expungement sessions with the Salvation Army and the Inland Empire Latino Lawyers Assn. are available both in English and Español.
“People who have completed court requirements and parole or probation, can submit documents to begin the expungement process,” says the Salvation Army’s Naomi Goforth, “and if accepted by the court, many times things on their criminal record can be expunged so they won’t stand in the way of their ability to have a better life.”
REDLANDS, CA. — For individuals who have turned their lives around and are eager to get and hold a responsible job, find stable housing, or pursue educational opportunities, the fact that they have an accessible criminal record too often results in them being turned away.
“Expungement” (also known as “expunction”) is the legal term for “a court-ordered process in which the legal record of an arrest or a criminal conviction is erased from your public criminal record.” Once an expungement is granted, one is no longer legally required to disclose one’s criminal record. This applies to employment, housing, and educational institution applications.
For many years, Expungement was available only for those who committed misdemeanors or lower-level felonies. Since 2023, with the passage of SB 731, Californians with most kinds of felony convictions, even violent crimes, can apply. There are two exceptions to the rule: sex offenses for California residents and anyone applying for federal employment or licensure.
Because one needs to file a legal action and have one’s case adjudicated in superior court, a petitioner needs a lawyer. The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps has recently partnered with the Inland Empire Latino Lawyers Association (IELLA) so that participants and alumni of Street Outreach, Shelter, and Transitional Living programs can take advantage of this service.
As an additional step to include community members who may benefit, anyone eligible for Expungement can participate in the upcoming Legal Clinics.
To get started, people seeking expungement need to call 951-369-3009 to confirm their attendance and eligibility for free legal help and the Livescan service.
IELLA provides free help to qualified ex-offenders. Gabriela Peréz, IELLA’s Executive Director, says, “With new leadership and additional funding, IELLA has prioritized and begun to specialize in expungements because we see its immediate impact on clients’ quality of life. Once clients submit their court documents to start their expungement process, they feel empowered and hopeful.
“After their case is expunged, they have new opportunities to seek a well-paying job, better housing, and pursue higher education. It all adds up to a better sense of self. As Executive Director, it’s my vision to close the justice gap and ensure that low-income people throughout the Inland Counties have an improved quality of life through access to the courts.”
Getting qualified starts with a Live Scan, which uses the participants’ fingerprints to access their criminal records. Alternatively, if Live Scan is inaccessible, individuals seeking IELLA’s legal assistance in Expungement may pull their own RAP sheet or Criminal Record History and bring it to the Community Event. Screening includes ensuring that an applicant has completed any court-ordered parole or probation requirements, is not the subject of a restraining order against them, has no pending or open cases, and has fulfilled any court-ordered victim restitution.
Participants in this process must also demonstrate that their annual income is below 200% of the federal poverty level. For the 48 contiguous United States, that’s $30,120 for a single person. Because all qualified participants are low-income, this sometimes means that they might not be financially able to complete restitution. In that case, IELLA helps petition the court for permission to proceed.
“There is no guarantee that the court will approve an exemption to the restitution rule,” says Peréz, “but we do our best to make a good case on their behalf. These people are turning their lives around and deserve an opportunity to pursue a better quality of life.”
Salvation Army Director of Programs Naomi Goforth notes that Live Scans are provided at no charge, and assistance is provided to obtain Criminal Record History through alternative means if needed. The process includes one-on-one interviews and reviews to ensure that applicants have all the necessary documents.
Two dates have been set for those who wish to apply for Expungement: Thursday, June 27th, at The Salvation Army Hospitality House, 925 W. 10th Street in San Bernardino, and Saturday the 29th, at The Salvation Army Corps and Community Center, 838 Alta Street in Redlands. Sessions start promptly at 9:00 a.m. and run until 1:00 p.m.
“When people have served their time, completed what the court has required, done their due diligence to address things which may have contributed to their criminal history, and they’ve done the work to turn their lives around,” Goforth said of her clients, “they deserve the chance to have a good life, get a good a job, secure stable housing and be able to pursue their education or a vocation if they desire. ”
For more information, call (909) 792-6868.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may 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 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 calling 1 (800) SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 792-6868.
“This is our second year offering this prevention education and training, and we know it’s an effective way to combat opioid deaths,” said Salvation Army Director of Programs Naomi Goforth.
This life-saving medication can reverse opioid overdoses. Naloxone is an antidote for treating heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioid overdoses.
REDLANDS, CA. — With opioid abuse on the rise, the Salvation Army is responding to the challenge by once again offering prevention education regarding opioid overdose and training on the use of Naloxone. This life-saving medication can reverse opioid overdoses. Naloxone is an antidote for treating heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioid overdoses.
In February, U.S. News & World Report published an article headlined ‘Fourth Wave’ of Opioid Epidemic Crashes Ashore, Propelled by Fentanyl and Meth. Based on a study by Millennium Health testing labs, the article points out how common polysubstance abuse has become. In fact, “…an overwhelming majority of fentanyl-positive urine samples—nearly 93%—contained additional substances.”
The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health online dashboard shows 58 to 61% of fentanyl overdose deaths in the county for the years 2022 through 2024 had methamphetamine present. The dashboard also indicates fentanyl overdose deaths increased from 260 in 2020 to 432 in 2023, with 108 more as of May 2024.
“Our workshop led by the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health helps raise awareness of trends in opioid abuse and how Naloxone can be used to treat overdoses. The workshop also includes prevention training. With overdoses on the rise, concerned residents can learn how to combat abuse,” says Naomi Goforth, the Salvation Army Director of Programs.
Over 100 people received education and training at last year’s program, and Goforth hopes for a similar turnout this year. The public is invited to the program, which will be held at the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps’ administration building at 838 Alta St. in Redlands. The session starts at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18.
“This is our second year partnering with Public Health to offer this program,” says Goforth, “and we know it’s an effective way to combat opioid deaths.” She adds that the program will also be conducted at the Salvation Army’s Hospitality House and Path to Prosperity facilities for program participants.
For more information, call (909) 792-6868.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may 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 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.
(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.
“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.
Media Contact
Salvation Army-PR-1214.2 Hospitality House #1
For interviews or more information call Carl Dameron