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Salvation Army
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 Did you know?
Every summer, the Oklahoma heat causes the death of numerous senior citizens right here in our state. How can you help save a life? With one simple donation, that’s how. For a simple $20 donation to The Salvation Army Oklahoma City’s Summer Cooling Program, box fans can be given to senior citizens in need, families with infants less than 6 months old and to those with chronic health conditions.
“Every summer, we face the challenge of helping our most fragile citizens stay safe in the heat,” said Salvation Army Social Services Director Toni Sanders. “Many of our seniors try to save money by not using their air conditioners... they are all on fixed incomes as it is. Unfortunately, that means many face the danger of heat-related illnesses and death.”
This summer, The Salvation Army Oklahoma City aims to provide more than 500 fans to those in need. Something as simple as a small box fan can provide enough cooling to reduce the risk of heat-related problems.
In addition to the Summer Cooling Program, The Salvation Army Oklahoma City’s Social Services can provide groceries, utility assistance, clothing and shelter to those in need. In 2008, more than 125,000 Oklahoma County residents received aid from The Salvation Army.
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 Did you know?
On any given day, The Salvation Army Oklahoma City’s Red Shield Kitchen feeds anywhere from 80 to 300 people who are hungry for a decent meal. Without The Salvation Army’s open kitchen, and your support, hundreds of children and adults would go hungry in Oklahoma City.
It’s a big program for a big problem. In the United States, homelessness is on the rise. The fastest-growing segment of homeless is children, and in 2008, The Salvation Army provided shelter to 500 of those children in Oklahoma City. Through its Men’s Lodge and Family Lodge, The Salvation Army provides a safe and clean environment for those who have nowhere to go and those who wish to break the cycle of homelessness.
In addition, families with homes who are facing hunger issues can come to The Salvation Army’s Social Services for grocery assistance. More than 2,500 bags of groceries are given each month.
“Many of our clients are the elderly and disabled,” said Toni Sanders, Social Services director. “They face the very real dilemma of choosing between paying for medicine, paying for bills or paying for food. Sometimes, they also have grandchildren they are caring for. It’s a tough situation for those who work or have worked all their lives only to find that hard work just doesn’t go far enough.”
When you consider giving this year, consider giving to The Salvation Army Oklahoma City Metro Area Command. More than 125,000 Oklahoma County residents received aid from The Salvation Army thanks to your support.
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 Did You Know?
For the neediest children in Oklahoma County, the simple joys of a childhood summer may seem unattainable. These at-risk kids will spend their summer wandering the streets or hanging out with other idle kids - many of them bad influences… a recipe for trouble.
But The Salvation Army can help struggling local families avoid such an outcome for their children. Last year in the United States, thousands of children attended Salvation Army residential camps.
"Now, more than ever, kids need these positive experiences," said Major Alan Hill, Oklahoma City Salvation Army area commander. "Time spent at camp can be life-changing for kids. It can instill feelings of self-worth, open up the world and offer hope for the future."
Major Hill that last summer, the citizens of Oklahoma County gave this gift to more than 125 local children and senior citizens, some of whom had never in their lives experienced the wonders of nature. Through these donations, underprivileged kids attend a week-long camp where they played sports, swam, explored the outdoors and made crafts.
And beyond the recreation, with the help of trained counselors, they learned how to live together with a diverse group of neighbors, dealing with the troubling issues and concerns that challenge them in their daily lives.
"We are so grateful to our friends who sponsored these children," Major Hill said. "What a difference their generosity made in these children's lives. It helps in so many ways.
“When these kids are in school, many have access to free meals. But when they’re out, it’s often a struggle for hard-pressed parents to provide the nutrition their children need, particularly now when many folks are facing reduced work hours or even loss of jobs.
“At Camp, the kids not only enjoy nutritious meals and explore the great outdoors, they learn new life-skills like conflict resolution and how to say no to gangs. And they get to interact with caring adults who listen to them and guide them. Our counselors really show them love and a deep concern for their future.“
The Salvation Army Oklahoma City Metropolitan Area Command is currently seeking sponsorship for 120 children for summer camp 2009. A $50 donation can ensure a child’s spot to the week-long summer camp.
"School will be ending soon," he points out. "There are lots of spots left and not enough money to fill them. I hope the community will come through for these deserving kids. For many of them, it's the highlight of the whole year."
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