A Veteran’s Day salute from The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army Northern Division is proud to salute our brave men and women in uniform on Veteran’s Day.
Our gratitude for them is on display through the wide range of veteran-specific programs we offer throughout Minnesota and North Dakota – including short- and long-term housing, basic needs assistance, rehabilitation, counseling, and more.
In the Twin Cities, for example, The Salvation Army operates two supportive housing complexes in South Minneapolis (pictured), with 10 of the units reserved for veterans. The veterans can stay up to two years, during which time a Salvation Army caseworker helps them stabilize, find employment, and secure permanent housing. Additional support is provided by the nearby VA Medical Center.
This program helped a U.S. Marine Corps veteran named Donald stay sober and start his life over.
“I’m so grateful for The Salvation Army,” Donald said. “I’m living right. I’m living good.”
A similar program exists at The Salvation Army in St. Cloud, Minn., whose 69-bed homeless shelter includes several rooms reserved specifically for veterans.
“This program saved my life,” said a U.S. Army veteran named Ricky, who participated in the program for one year.
The Salvation Army also supports veterans by throwing parties for them, just because of who they are. In June, about two dozen veterans and their families attended a picnic held in their honor at The Salvation Army Northwoods Camp in Finlayson, Minn.
An Army veteran named Ben (pictured) attended the picnic with his wife and four kids.
“I’m glad (The Salvation Army) is doing this to honor veterans,” said Ben, who has been deployed to three active duty missions in Bosnia and Iraq since 2001.
The Salvation Army has been serving veterans since World War I (watch video) and we will continue to do so far into the future.
“Happy Veteran’s Day to the men and women who protect our country and freedoms,” said Lt. Col. Lonneal Richardson, leader of The Salvation Army Northern Division. “You are heroes.”
Please join The Salvation Army by volunteering or making a donation to support your local community. Stay current on how The Salvation Army is changing lives in Minnesota and North Dakota by signing up for our e-Newsletters.