Rochester Salvation Army opens day center in partnership with city
The economic toll of the COVID-19 crisis continues to climb, with nearly one in five Minnesota adults having filed for unemployment benefits since March 16 and available funds running dry.
The Salvation Army Northern Division and our supporters have responded by elevating our level of service. That includes The Salvation Army in Rochester, Minn., which has partnered with the city to open a day center for people experiencing homelessness and others impacted by the pandemic.
The center is located inside the Rochester Salvation Army, where guests have access to shelter, bathrooms, food, and other services daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. The center is scheduled to remain open until early November.
The day center is a blessing to the people who need it.
“Between 40 and 50 people are coming to the center every day,” said Major Bob Mueller, Rochester Salvation Army administrator. “This place is a critical resource for countless people in our community who are struggling due to COVID-19.”
The city has funded its part of the day center with money from the Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The Rochester Salvation Army has not received federal dollars for the day center and is using its own staff and resources (your donations are appreciated to continue providing this important service).
“We have incredible community partners who are stepping up during this health crisis,” said Steve Rymner, Rochester City Administrator.
Thanks to our partners and supporters, The Salvation Army Northern Division continues to find creative ways to provide food and basic care to thousands of people at our locations throughout Minnesota and North Dakota.
Please join The Salvation Army in serving those affected by the COVID-19 crisis by giving a donation or signing up to volunteer. Your help will provide emergency assistance and hope for people and families in desperate need.
If you are feeling lonely, fearful or hopeless due to the COVID-19 crisis, call our Emotional and Spiritual Care Hotline at 877-220-4195 anytime between 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Central Time. Trained Salvation Army officers, employees and volunteers will be available to talk, listen to you, and pray for you.