Captain Rick Robins (left) from the Melfort Salvation Army receives a donation from Ken Singer (right) from the Melfort Rotary Club that will go towards meal programs in the community (Facebook/The Salvation Army Melfort).

By Aaron Schulze

Community Service During COVID-19

Salvation Army using donations to feed the community during COVID-19 pandemic

Apr 22, 2020 | 5:45 PM

Day-to-day operations at the Salvation Army in Melfort have adjusted to restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Both the Thrift Store and the donation centre closed, and the Salvation Army is limited in holding fundraisers due to social distancing rules.

But according to Captain Rick Robins the overall impact on them has not been too bad thanks in part to two large donations – $2,500 from the Melfort Rotary Club and $2,500 from Agriculture Canada. The money will allow them to continue their main focus of feeding those in the Melfort who need it.

“We have a regular lunch on Wednesdays, and we know there are people who come and that’s their meal,” Robins told northeastNOW. “We know there are folks in the community who struggle to put food on their table… during this time we can help. The Salvation Army is here to help clothe those who need to be clothed and be a transforming influence in our community. We can fulfill our mission by helping those in need.”

Robins said the Melfort Salvation Army has ready-made meals for pick-up or delivery in the community. He also intends to speak with some schools in the area and explore the possibility of a student lunch program.

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“It’s going on a needs basis at this moment,” he said. “We’ve been in talks with the [City of Melfort] as well as other people in the community to find the gap and what can we fill.”

While community service has not seen too much of an impact so far, Robins said there are financial concerns for the future. He said it’s mandatory for Salvation Army branches to save money so they can stay afloat during harder times like this, but the funds can only last so long without revenue coming in.

“The good thing is we own our property and don’t have to pay rent. Our bills are fairly small at this point and we’re sitting in a manageable spot, but if this goes on for a year, it’ll be very difficult for everyone in the community,” he said.

Robins encouraged residents in the Melfort area to donate to their local Salvation Army if they want to assist in providing food for those who may need it.

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aaron.schulze@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @SchulzePANow