Sandra Poole, a Kenora Rotarian and regional leader within the Salvation Army provided a brief insight into the workings of her church.
The Salvation Army is a Christian organization that gives hope and support to vulnerable people in 400 communities across Canada and in 131 countries. The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.
Sandra is responsible for an area from MB border to Dinorwic, north to Minaki and south to Nestor Falls. The Salvation Army operate Thrift Stores in Dryden and Kenora. The thrift store in Dryden takes clothes and other items (but not furniture) in good condition that can be resold. Other community services including a food bank, and Christmas hamper program.
They also have a social assistance program that will hand out vouchers to assist clients, especially those who are fire and emergency disaster victims.
This year the Christmas Kettle campaign is to be restarted in Dryden; the money raised in Dryden will stay in Dryden.
The Army also encourages recycling to reflect good stewardship. In a partnership with the Diabetes Society they recycle clothing. Another example is to have food waste go to farms to feed animals.
Poole closed her presentation with two videos on Disaster Services and 2017 annual report and client anecdotes.