The Salvation Army’s West Park Corps is a lifeline for Seniors during COVID-19 Recovery
Cleveland, OH (May 12th, 2021) –The COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for many, but especially the senior population who is already vulnerable to illness. According to The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 8 in 10 deaths from COVID-19 fall in adults age 65+. As a rate of the high mortality rate amongst this population, many of these individuals were forced into solitude out of fear of catching COVID-19. As a result, many seniors were unable to attend daily activities, social events, worship services, and other programs. In order to help the changing needs in their community, The Salvation Army’s West Park Corps Community Center, located at 12645 Lorain Ave Cleveland, OH 44111, quickly reconfigured their Senior Program to keep their 60 senior participants healthy, cared for, and safe. Prior to COVID-19, the West Park Corps had a robust in-person senior engagement program that included field trips, daily activities, and a hot meal program.
The modified senior program consists of Salvation Army officers & staff providing multiple touch points using calls and personal visits. All seniors in the program are provided with a daily hot meal and food boxes to ensure that they receive well balanced and nutritional meals. Each of the seniors also receive a weekly wellness call to provide emotional care and support. To date, this program has provided 17,474 meals to their participants.
“Our senior program has always been the heart of the operation at the West Park Corps. In many instances, The Salvation Army, especially in 2020, has been the only contact for these individuals. Our program has been a true lifeline and a beacon of hope for better days ahead,” stated Major Ernesto Portillo Commanding Officer, The Salvation Army of West Park Corps Community Center. “As recovery continues from the pandemic’s surge last year, we will continue to work every day to serve this community and meet the needs of our neighbors, continued Portillo.”
For more information about The Salvation Army of West Park, or to request services, call 216-252-3593 or visit www.SalvationArmyCleveland.org.
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The Salvation Army’s Mission
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. Nearly 30 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, and outreach programs for youth. For more information, go to www.SalvationArmyCleveland.org.