TEMPLE, Texas —
The Salvation Army of Temple has increased its efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19 and ensure critical service among the homeless and other vulnerable people in the area.
While services remain in place for the most vulnerable, many people who have been able to pay their way prior to this outbreak may now face extreme difficulties due to mandated business closings, according to The Salvation Army.
“We are already seeing the effects and expect that to grow significantly as this situation plays out,” Lt. Aaron Millin of The Salvation Army said. “So many people living with extremely tight budgets aren’t able to skip just one paycheck, much (fewer) weeks or months without pay. They are turning to us for help.”
The Salvation Army provides service to people in every zip code in the state and is working to ensure people have access to food, shelter, and needed services like housing and utility assistance.
These services include a food pantry in Temple and Killeen with curbside delivery, rent and utility assistance, rehousing assistance, and a men, women and family shelter that’s continuing to house those who are homeless.
Inside The Salvation Army’s residential facilities, there are also additional cleaning and sanitation efforts in place to help stop the spread of the virus.
If a resident or staff member gets sick, isolation/quarantine areas have been made but additional healthcare and staff will be needed.
“All of these extra measures have a price tag attached,” Millin said. “There is a concern that the effect of this unprecedented event could be felt for years. We want to be here to provide basic needs to those we already serve and to have plenty for the new generation of need caused by this virus.”
The Salvation Army said that public support is essential, maybe more so now than any time in recent history.
“If those able are willing to help those who are in need, our state and nation will likely rise out of this devastating situation more quickly with fewer residual effects on the men, women and children suffering right now,” Millin said. “The Salvation Army is committed to serving those who need our help, and we are thankful for generous public support that allows us to do so. We don’t want to turn anyone in need away, and the only way we can accomplish this is through generous public support.”
The organization is working with health officials at the local, state, and federal levels. To contribute to The Salvation Army’s efforts in your community, please visit the Salvation Army website.
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