Letters: This summer, share a bit of holiday cheer
Philadelphians passing by the "Clothespin" at 15th and Market Streets or the Bourse in Old City on Wednesdays this month might wonder why they are seeing the familiar Salvation Army kettles under beach umbrellas. For the first time in our 130-year history, the Salvation Army of Greater Philadelphia is conducting a Christmas in July Campaign to bridge the gap between a 30 percent increase in demand for basic emergency assistance and a severe shortfall in traditional funding.
The Salvation Army's Emergency Assistance Services program, which helps needy individuals and families with food, clothing, furniture, rent, and utilities, has borne the brunt of budget reductions. This program was discontinued at three out of four neighborhood sites, and the remaining location, at The Salvation Army Temple Corps Community Center on Brown Street in North Philadelphia, will benefit from contributions. Even at the remaining central assistance office, every day we have to turn away almost as many people as we serve.
As the area's largest safety net, the Salvation Army is struggling to support our neighbors who are falling through the cracks in this recession. Donations from Christmas in July will help the army fulfill its mission of "Doing the Most Good" for those who seek our help.
Need knows no season. We are grateful to the local media who are working with us to communicate the need and to the many volunteers standing out in the sun to raise funds. We urge all who can to visit www.SalvationArmyPhiladelphia.org.
Jorge Diaz
Director of operations
Salvation Army of Greater Philadelphia
