Increasing living costs have resulted in a surge of requests for assistance from The Salvation Army. At the same time, the organization is experiencing escalating expenses to deliver such crucial services. The Salvation Army is seeking assistance from the community to help meet the increased need. The Salvation Army invites the community to donate at a local red kettle or online at HattiesburgKettle.org
“Holiday donations fuel our capacity to offer critical financial support to families and individuals in crisis year-round,” said Lieutenant Victor Estudiante, Commanding officer of The Salvation Army. “This assistance helps individuals and families stay in their homes, keep their utilities on, and feed their families, alongside our Christmas assistance initiatives.”
For people experiencing poverty, the outlook is overwhelming. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's Household Pulse Survey, 36.7% of survey respondents said they would likely face eviction in the next two months. The Consumer Price Index reports that food prices are up 4.3% from 2022. More and more Americans are barely making it to their next payday. “Families are facing higher rent, food, and utility expenses and turning to us for help.”
Last year, the Hattiesburg community rallied and raised $65,000. This year’s goal aims to surpass $85,000 to support local programs for food assistance, emergency financial assistance, youth programs, senior programs, and more.
"Christmas should be a time of joy, but for people experiencing poverty, it can be a season of depression and worry. We ask you to support families and individuals in need in our community by considering The Salvation Army for your holiday donations. Your donation will stay right here in this community, helping our most vulnerable," added Officer Estudiante.
Visit SalvationArmyHattiesburg.org or call 601-544-3684 to volunteer, donate, or learn more about how you can support The Salvation Army this Christmas and beyond.
