Selma Salvation Army to Operate as Service Center
After years of struggling to effectively provide services with fewer financial resources available, The Salvation Army of Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi has decided to resize its operations in Selma/Dallas County. The Salvation Army will “right-size” its operations to that of a Service Center, so that it can continue to provide services to the residents of this community, and do so more efficiently.
Service Centers provide basic social services, seasonal assistance, and disaster services within a community and are funded through thrift store sales, public donations, the United Way and program grants. In spite of the reduction in its programming, Major Steve Welch says that most of what The Salvation Army does in Selma will stay the same, and most people will not notice a difference.
The realignment of its operations will become effective June 20th as Majors Steve and Mary Welch will be reassigned to another appointment within The Salvation Army. A layperson will be put in place to make sure Salvation Army programs in Selma and Dallas County continue to run smoothly.
“This decision was definitely a difficult one. We met with the leadership from the divisional level and with the Welches, and we all agree this is what’s best for our community,” said Shaudonna Minor, Selma Corps Advisory Board Chair.
The Salvation Army was first established in Selma in 1903. In 1918, the Corps closed, but reopened five years later in 1923. In 1991, the Selma Corps opened a shelter for domestic abuse survivors, providing a safe haven as well as counseling.
“Selma has a proud history within The Salvation Army,” said Divisional Commander, Major Ronnie Raymer. “We know there are still many who need our help in this community, and we plan to take care of those who need our services.”
All services will still be run out of the current location at 2104 Franklin Street in Selma until Salvation Army facilities can be consolidated into a single location.
