WACO, Texas — The stress and strain of the COVID-19 pandemic is weighing on thousands of people as they struggle to make it through an uncertain time.
The Salvation Army is offering the Emotional and Spiritual Care (ESC) Hotline is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (CST) seven days week at (844) 458-HOPE. Callers who do pick up the phone will find others on the other end ready to listen and pray for them.
"Our goal is to give people an opportunity to connect with someone who will hear their story and concerns. We hope to offer a calming presence in the midst of circumstances none of us has ever experienced before,” Major James Taylor said. “The Salvation Army wants people to know they are not alone and that even though we might not be able to meet them face to face, we care, want to listen and are as close as a phone call.”
The hotline opened and started taking calls just a few days ago. They said they answered a number of calls from those who just needed someone to listen.
One caller was a mother who was dealing with additional stress from homeschooling her children for the first time. Another, they said, called for prayer and guidance in a time that losing their home was at the forefront of reality.
The Salvation Army said emotional and spiritual care is an integral part of their year-round services. In times like this, the Salvation Army's Disaster Services teams take a step forward to provide what they can in moments of crisis.
“The Salvation Army is here to help during this time of heightened need," Major Taylor said. “We understand physical needs are just one aspect of this. We also want people to know we are here – trained and ready – to pray with and encourage them throughout this crisis.”
The Salvation Army said that donations of supplies are needed including bottled water for take-out meals, groceries and cleaning items.
If you would like to donate, please contact their office at (254) 756-7271.
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