Washington County Salvation Army stands ready to serve
Editor’s note: Today, we kick off a series of stories to highlight the nonprofits in our area. From now until New Year’s Eve, we will profile nonprofits in the region that focus on human services, community betterment and the arts, and include ways to help them continue to help others. annual Herald-Standard Give-A-Christmas campaign kicks off today, looking once again to support local branches of the Salvation Army.
When shoppers walk past bundled up bell ringers this holiday season, it’s more important than ever to consider dropping a donation into one of the Salvation Army’s Red Kettles.
Washington Corps. Lt. Tom Perez said the residual effects of the state and federal government shutdowns, modifications to social service programs and the overall rise in prices have more families and individuals struggling to make ends meet.
“The Medicaid and food stamp programs are changing, and people are getting disconnect notices (for utilities) every month,” Perez said.
And, as people turn to the Salvation Army for help, the organization wants to answer the call.
“We want to provide security for our families, we want to meet the needs of our community,” Perez said.
Started in 1891, the Red Kettle Campaign relies on the generosity of donors to help Salvation Army units across the country operate. Last year, the Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division, which includes Washington, Greene and Fayette counties, raised more than $2.2 million.
“The donations are put right back out into the local community,” said Perez.
Another way to provide help this holiday season is by participating in the organization’s Angel Tree program. Each Angel Tree has tags with gifts ideas for a child who needs Christmas presents. In 2024, the Angel Tree program helped hundreds of area children who otherwise would not have presents under the tree.
Typically, the program is for children from birth to 12, but this year, teens from 13 to 18 are also eligible, provided they are still enrolled in school. Trees are located at Walmart, Sam’s Club and Big Lots, Perez said. Instructions on where the gifts can be dropped off are listed in the stores.
Looking past the holiday season, the Salvation Army is currently planning for its Choice Pantry, collecting food donations and creating a space where residents can shop for themselves.
“Typically, they hand you a box of food equivalent to the number in your household, and that’s it. Many times, half the box goes uneaten if the family doesn’t or can’t use it. We want to maximize our resources,” Perez said.
Clients will be able to choose items based on need and preferences, ensuring what’s taken will be used, he said. The pantry is expected to open in the spring of 2026.
Perez said it’s also important to remember that the Salvation Army offers many other programs from church, to community service, and activities for the entire family.
“We do a lot, and we’re heavily (reliant) on volunteers. It’s all for the Glory of God. This is a ministry, and we have a heart for our community,” Perez said.
For more information, visit https://easternusa.salvationarmy.org/western-pennsylvania/washington/.