Salvation Army services available to county
Jenna Buehler Comet writer-intern

Salvation Army representative Kim Widner is encouraging people in need to seek help at the area Salvation Army, located in the Delphi Stone Barn Area IV office. Services have been available to area residents for two years. Widner hopes to educate the community about the services available.

"Our goal at the Salvation Army is to get the word out that this is available in Carroll County," she said. "We're here to benefit the community and help people in need."

The Salvation Army serves as a center for low-income families to receive help with rent, utilities, groceries, medicine, doctor visits, and other necessities. Once individual situations are evaluated, families are allowed a maximum of $50 per every six months.

"We've helped approximately 25 families this fiscal year. Recipients generally meet 150 percent of the poverty level or below," said Widner. "When we make an evaluation, we're looking for need, and that need overreaches income."

The Salvation Army offers a variety of donation programs including the Angel Tree program hosted in December at the courthouse, which provided children in need with Christmas gifts. 2006 was first year the Salvation Army was involved with the program.

The center's newest program is "Tools for Schools," which will include the distribution of 50 school packs for grade school children in need. The packs will be available to families on a firstcome, first-serve basis.

Widner said the Salvation Army will participate Aug. 11 with First Assembly of God's Christian Motorcycle Group during Old Settlers. The motorcycling fundraiser will begin at the Delphi Freedom Center on Washington St. Donations can be made in the business parking lot, and all proceeds go to the Salvation Army.

Salvation Army services are available by appointment only and can be made by contacting the center office at (765) 564- 6466. Widner can be contacted at (800) 382-7556.

"We accept donations throughout the year and are also in need of volunteers for future programs," concluded Widner.