The Salvation Army in Greater Cleveland Meets Increased Needs this Past Christmas
Cleveland, OH (January 9th, 2024) – The Salvation Army in Greater Cleveland has officially closed the books on its 2023 red kettle campaign. The organization raised over $370,000 for the iconic red kettles. These funds will be used year-round to provide food pantry items, utility assistance, programs for youth, and other essential needs for each of their five Corps Community Centers in the East Cleveland, Miles Park, Collinwood, Ohio City, and West Park neighborhoods.
“We extend a big thank you to all of those throughout Cuyahoga County for their continued support of our work and mission each holiday season. Every dollar donated provides hope to others facing hardships. The Salvation Army throughout Greater Cleveland is focused on meeting human needs throughout the county to ensure life is better for our friends and neighbors,” stated Captain Joel Ashcraft, Divisional Secretary of The Salvation Army in Greater Cleveland.
Leading up to Christmas, The Salvation Army in Greater Cleveland provided toys, food, and other essential items to families in need through their Christmas assistance program. The organization proudly reports that its Christmas assistance program impacted 5,898 children and 2,711 families. This was over a 50% increase in requests for support from the prior year. Additionally, The Salvation Army provided over 750 hot meals to residents in East Cleveland to promote fellowship and community and ensure warm Thanksgiving and Christmas meals to those who need them most during this cold season.
“Our Christmas Assistance Program is one of our most rewarding programs. We never want to see a child go without a toy to unwrap at Christmas or a family without a holiday meal. We are grateful for the support of all our corporate and community partners and individuals who provided thousands of donated coats and toys. Each is a valuable piece to ensure that no one gets forgotten at Christmas,” stated Ashcraft.
As this Christmas season closes for The Salvation Army, the organization will continue to work tirelessly throughout its communities to support the least, lost and forgotten.
“The Christmas season is meant to be the most joyous of seasons, and we do our best at The Salvation Army to ensure that all of our Christmas campaigns do all they can to make life better for someone else. From providing a hot meal to a neighbor in need to giving a present to children or making someone smile as they engage with the iconic red kettle. It’s ultimately what the season is about spreading joy and continuing to spread it all year long,” continued Ashcraft.
For more information about The Salvation Army in Greater Cleveland or to make a donation, call 216-861-8185.