Salvation Army giveaway addresses need
Shouts of gratitude and “God bless you” rang out at the Salvation Army’s free clothing giveaway Saturday in Butler.
Following a huge donation of overstock items from the Walmart Inc., volunteers set out toys, food, shoes and clothing for all seasons during the event at the Salvation Army’s building at 312 W. Cunningham St.
Set to start at 10 a.m., Major David Means of the Salvation Army said the giveaway was likely to end early due to its popularity.
“There’s not much left,” he said.
Major Darlene Means, administrator for the organization, said they saw 34 families within an hour of being open.
She added that the Salvation Army had giveaways of this type before, but prior to school opening in August.
“Today we have over 1,000 pieces of clothing, 50 pairs of shoes and boots and winter coats,” she said. “I think this is one of our better turnouts we’ve ever had.”
Darlene Means said she hoped the event would serve dual purposes: helping others and getting the word out about the group’s programs.
“We have a summer camp we have to fill spots for. Last year we only had five spots filled,” she said. “And we have our feeding program Monday, Wednesday, Friday.”
The lunchtime program draws a lot of interest, Darlene Means said.
“It’s not the homeless, even. A lot of people are here for the fellowship with other people,” she said.
David Means said food insecurity and clothing donation is a huge part of the mission at the Salvation Army, but he sees further need within Butler.
“Since COVID, mental health and the youth are at the top of my list,” he said. “That’s my opinion. You’d be surprised what’s going on with the youth today, the trouble they see.”
Regarding the giveaway event, David Means said they hope to have more in the future to further help Butler’s citizens.
“Love of God and to help people. It starts with that, and that’s been my motto since I’ve started this. ... Heart to God and hand to man,” he said.
