Tampa, Florida (May 2, 2022) – The Salvation Army in Tampa is excited to celebrate National Salvation Army Week, May 9-15. Since 1893, The Salvation Army has faithfully and consistently worked to help those in need from our community, 365 day a year providing assistance to individuals and families who may find themselves in crisis, shelter to those experiencing homelessness, food and meals to the hungry, and much more.
In 1954, the week of November 18-December 4 (now recognized in May) was declared by the United States Congress and proclaimed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to be the first National Salvation Army Week, as a reminder to Americans to give freely of themselves. In his speech, President Eisenhower said:
“Among Americans, The Salvation Army has long been a symbol of wholehearted dedication to the cause of human brotherhood. In time of war, the men and women of this organization have brought to those serving their country far from home, friendliness and warm concern. In the quieter days of peace, their work has been a constant reminder to us all that each of us is neighbor and kin to all Americans. Giving freely of themselves, the men and women of The Salvation Army have won the respect of us all.”
In Tampa alone last year, The Salvation Army provided:
• 37,222 nights of shelter
• 111,827 meals served
• 272 households for rent and utilities provided
• 501 Angel Tree families
• 1,414 Angels (children) assisted via Angel Trees
“National Salvation Army Week presents a wonderful opportunity for us to let the community know more about the work of The Salvation Army in Tampa” said Major David Swyers, Commanding Officer of The Salvation Army Tampa. “The last two year were very challenging as we have all dealt with the ongoing pandemic. The Salvation Army has experienced heightened need during this time and has been privileged to support so many in our community as we have continued to be open 365 days a year. We want to recognize and celebrate the partners, supporters, and volunteers who make the ministry of the Army possible and invite everyone to join us as we celebrate National Salvation Army Week.”
Today, The Salvation Army is at work in 132 countries around the world. Here in the USA in 2020 the organization provided more than 155 million meals between March and September alone, 1.6 million nights of COVID shelter, 6.6 million food boxes, and emotional and spiritual care to 857,000 people. With more than 7,500 centers of operation in the U.S., The Salvation Army is uniquely positioned to meet needs in Jesus’ name, without discrimination – wherever it exists.
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army annually helps nearly 30 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at 7,600 centers of operation around the country. In the first-ever listing of “America’s Favorite Charities” by The Chronicle of Philanthropy, The Salvation Army ranked as the country’s largest privately funded, direct-service nonprofit. For more information about Tampa, visit www.SalvationArmyTampa.org and follow us on www.Facebook.com/salvationarmytampacommand.