The Salvation Army seeing spike in people seeking services, food, shelter

ALBANY, Ga. – Although COVID-19 numbers has dropped significantly in Dougherty County, the pandemic is far reaching and still effecting the community. Officials with The Salvation Army say that they’re seeing twice as many people come to them now in need of food, supplies and shelter. 

“We have seen an influx in our feeding program where usually we average around 75 people a day and now we’re averaging around 145 to 150 people a day,” says Salvation Army Captain James Sullivan.

And it’s not just the homeless that are using The Salvation Army’s services. Sullivan says the COVID-19 pandemic has effected everyone and they’re seeing all age groups and demographics look to them for help.

“I think a lot has to do with covid, people being laid off or people lose their jobs, there’s no way that they can provide for their families. Bills overtake,”

The Salvation Army can help people with utilities, rent, they provide shelter, supply people with needed essentials and of course feed hungry people.

“This, I think, is a great opportunity where they don’t have to concentrate much on a meal because we provide two meals a day.”

But now that the need has spiked, The Salvation Army is desperate for resources.

“We need canned goods, we need washing powder, we need soap, we need hygiene kits, those are the things that are very essential right now.”

Follow The Salvation Army of Albany on Facebook to see how you could contribute.