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From:TheBahamasWeekly.com Community
Nassau, Bahamas - As the world continues to grapple with the socio-economic effects of Covid-19, the Salvation Army remains a pillar of support in the community, seeking to do the most good to the most people in the most need. Last month, in addition to its daily community outreach, the organization provided care packages valued at $100 each to 100 families, impacting more than 390 individuals. This special initiative, facilitated by a $7,500 grant from the Citi Foundation, came to be through a partnership with United Way Guatemala. A cross-section of families was assisted, including 25 single households, 25 married couples, 25 persons with disabilities or medical needs, and 25 seniors. Each category included persons still displaced by Hurricane Dorian. Each package included items to meet critical areas of need. Fresh bread, produce, water, dry goods, sanitization, and a disinfecting kit, as well as a personal hygiene kit, were provided. Recipients also received a meat voucher to redeem at their convenience. “Even in these challenging times, our donors and volunteers have shown up, and their generosity enables us to increase our impact in the community and assist those most vulnerable,” stated Melanese Coakley, Salvation Army Community Relations & Development Associate. Since March 23, 2020, the Salvation Army has aided 14,400 persons representing 3,600 families through their Covid-19 Relief program, a direct response to the sharp increase in persons requesting food assistance because of economic strife due to the pandemic. The national program, which ran from July through September, extended beyond New Providence and Grand Bahama, aiding those in need in Long Island, Crooked Island, Acklins & Long Cay, South Andros, Inagua, Mayaguana, and Cat Island. While implementing new initiatives to amplify support due to the pandemic, the Salvation Army maintained its daily assistance programs. The organization quickly assimilated to the new normal, transitioning from a face-to-face application process for assistance to an online process coupled with a service window to assist clients while adhering to Covid-19 social distancing protocols. The organization serves those seeking assistance between 8:30 am to 11:30 am, with lunch service offered daily from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. The public can continue to support the Salvation Army through financial donations or by purchasing and donating food and personal items. To learn more about the Salvation Army’s work or to make a difference in the lives of those in your community, visit salvationarmybahamas.org or call The Salvation Army at 393-2340.
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