Centre County Salvation Army assistance programs.
Many families in Centre County, and nearby regions such as Huntingdon, will be faced with a crisis from time to time, and the Salvation Army is one place to turn to for help. The organization will offer whatever support they can. While unfortunately there are limits due to demand and availability of resources, they may be able to help with bills, housing, and the charity also administers holiday assistance in the Centre County Pennsylvania region.
Basic needs can be met by the Daily Emergency Assistance program. This is one of the main services of the Salvation Army in the region. Qualified families and lower income individuals will be provided with basic human services in a crisis. This can include grants for utility bills, lodging, rent, emergency vouchers for food and gasoline and prescription medications.
As part of the application process the individual will need to go through an interview. It will provide the case manager with a detailed assessment of their needs. A budget analysis and credit counseling may be required. The clients of the Centre Salvation Army will be assisted by getting referrals to appropriate non-profit organizations, churches, housing programs, or utility resources.
The annual Back-To-School Program starts in late summer. Teenagers, children and youth of pre-qualified, lower income families will receive new clothing, backpacks, notebooks and other school supplies. It will usually be held over a day or two and it will provide for an early morning shopping trip for the child as well as their parent. After the items have been selected, food and a meal will be provided to the students and their families.
Several holiday assistance programs operate in the region, including in Huntingdon County. The Angel Tree Program will often help hundreds of families and children. Many businesses, clubs, malls, and churches will place the Angel Tree on their property. The organizations or businesses will display the special tree which will be decorated with “angel tags”. It will have a local child’s first name on it as well as a wish list of the clothes or toys they need. Local individuals or groups from the Centre County community adopt a child’s tag and buy the items they need. The Salvation Army will ensure the items get to the child in question and they administrate the program. It is actually available in most states so the organization has extensive experience in running it. All families that participate in the Angel Tree program will also receive a free grocery voucher for a bountiful Christmas meal or holiday basket.
Another option is the Thanksgiving Dinner. This is offered in partnership with local churches. It will allow these groups and charities to sponsor an annual Thanksgiving Eve dinner. It will be offered for free to the community at large, including the low income, unemployed, and homeless. The dinner provides participants with a free delicious meal. Many seniors also partake, and the homebound may even have the meal brought to their residence.
During periods of a local or national disaster, the Salvation Army provides assistance and emergency support to the person impacted as well as first responders in Centre County. Throughout the year the Salvation Army will train local volunteers and other key staff. The organization will offer instructional workshops, drills, and community exercises to anyone who needs support or is being trained. A mobile feeding unit also is available in Centre County and it will disburse food, meals, and other aid.
Other programs are offered for students and children. This can include the Ladore Camp & Conference Center as well as Harvestview Christian Fellowship. They are really intended to enrich the lives of the youth through activities, guidance, and other support.
The main Salvation Army location for the region is 2603 E College Ave, Suite G, State College, PA 16801. Dial (814)861-1785 for intake and to make an appointment.
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