“Many left feeling really special.”

The Salvation Army in Guelph, Ont., hosts an annual event called “Red Carpet Ready”, which allows hundreds of students to find quality formal wear at an affordable price.

This year, the program took place in mid-April, over two days, and welcomed more than 300 guests looking for something special to wear to their year-end school functions. The sale not only helped attendees but also raised over $4000 to support the Army’s Community and Family Services.

Red Carpet Ready originally focused on only dresses; however, as the initiative has grown, it has become more inclusive.

“We wanted to make sure that we had opportunities available for anybody needing to find a grad dress or suit,” says Major Peter VanDuinen of The Salvation Army in Guelph. “We didn’t want to turn away any student who might be looking for affordable attire.”

At the event, dresses and suits were offered at $20 each, while accessories were priced at $5. Thanks to donations from the community, a variety of formal wear was available and displayed in a boutique-style setting with mannequins, clothing racks and fitting rooms.

Volunteers also assisted guests by helping them find the right items.

“The most impactful thing was seeing people come in who maybe felt unsure about themselves and then find their perfect dress or suit,” Major Peter says. “Many left feeling really special.”

Aside from clothing donations, local businesses showed support by providing jewellery, shoes and hair accessories, while some also offered discounts on alterations.

“The biggest thing about Red Carpet Ready is the dignity it gives young people.”

Former participants also contributed to the initiative.

“We’ve had girls who participated in previous years re-donate their dresses because they appreciated the experience so much,” Major Peter explains. “They wanted somebody else to have that same opportunity.”

Thanks to Red Carpet Ready, hundreds of students will be attending graduation and prom feeling confident and sharp.

“The need in the community keeps increasing,” Major Peter says, referring to the rising living costs. “But the biggest thing about Red Carpet Ready is the dignity it gives young people.”

By Juan Romero

The post Prom Dreams Made Affordable Through Salvation Army Initiative appeared first on The Salvation Army.

“I was partying all the time, getting drunk and doing drugs,” he shares. “There were a couple of nights that I didn’t even remember closing the restaurant.”

Despite interventions and attempts at rehabilitation, the cycle continued, eventually leading him to homelessness. Andrew later moved to Victoria, where an accident changed the course of his life.

He suffered a severe leg fracture after hitting rough terrain on a skateboard. While he was in a lot of pain, he found an unexpected sense of comfort in the hospital.

“I had a bed, a roof over my head and was fed three meals a day. I was no longer ‘homeless’. I remember looking out my window on a rainy day, with my leg in a brace, thinking ‘It’s so much better in here than it is out there’,” Andrew shares.

Searching for a Way Out

During his hospital stay, Andrew decided to get clean for good. A support worker introduced him to The Salvation Army’s Victoria Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre (ARC). Less than a month later, he walked through its doors, feeling anxious yet determined.

“It felt a bit daunting—new environment, new rules, new everything. But underneath all that, I was mostly laser‑focused on one thing: I had my own room. After the chaos I’d been living in, having a door I could close felt like luxury,” he recalls.

Andrew’s transformation began immediately at ARC. Attending Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings had a big impact on his journey to sobriety. In addition, he was connected to resources that helped him access housing and educational opportunities.

“ARC played a huge role in referring me to the things that made recovery sustainable,” Andrew says. “The support here has been huge. The staff really showed up for me in different ways.”

Building New Life

Today, Andrew continues to navigate the steps of renewal and says he is in a much better place, both physically and mentally. He now wakes up each day with a sense of purpose and stays active.

Andrew hopes to secure a permanent home for himself and his cat. He also wants to make a difference in the future.

“In the short term, my goals are simple but important: keep going to meetings, finish my steps and eventually take on a sponsee of my own. Giving back is a big part of my recovery and I’m looking forward to being able to support someone the way others have been there for me,” he shares.

“I want to do social work, specifically helping people who struggle with mental health and addiction.”

Looking back, Andrew believes his accident was a blessing in disguise, as it led him to connect with The Salvation Army.

“ARC didn’t just give me structure; it gave me direction. It connected me to housing, other resources, community and a sense of purpose I hadn’t felt in years. Without it, I know exactly where I’d be: on the streets, caught in the same cat‑and‑mouse game with my addiction and I wouldn’t have lasted long. I’m not exaggerating when I say I would’ve been dead months ago.”

Next Steps

While Andrew doesn’t want to forget the past, he is focused on healing and using his experiences to build a stronger future.

He is grateful for the support he received at The Salvation Army and for the friendships he made along the way.

By Juan Romero

The post An Unexpected Second Chance at Life appeared first on The Salvation Army.

MJ also works full-time, which makes his dedication even more impressive. Every week, he visits The Salvation Army’s Living Hope Community Church in Winnipeg to give back to the organization that once helped his family.

“The Salvation Army made it easier for my children and me to learn English and about Canadian culture when we first arrived. So that is why I like them and now give my time to help people,” MJ shares.

“The Salvation Army welcomed us and now I consider them family.”

The support his family received relieved one of the biggest challenges many newcomers face: the language barrier. MJ’s children were also tutored at The Salvation Army, which helped them adjust to school.

That experience inspired MJ to volunteer.

Today, he assists with the ESL English Café and a child-minding program. He is also a full-time chef, which makes him a valuable member of Living Hope’s kitchen team.

MJ’s day begins at 6:30 a.m., he finishes work at 6 p.m. and then heads to The Salvation Army to volunteer during the evening.

“I can give back by making them happy.”

“I’m 50 years old and that is just my routine. I work every day, but I avoid alcohol and coffee. Just good meals and a bit of exercise keep me going.”

At The Salvation Army, MJ appreciates the opportunity to connect with newcomers and help brighten their days.

“We have people from Europe, Asia and Africa here and while my English is not great, I can give back by making them happy,” MJ says.

Reflecting on his journey with The Salvation Army, MJ believes that the organization’s welcome when his family first arrived had a major impact on their lives.

“We were immigrants, so we had no friends here. The Salvation Army welcomed us and now I consider them family.”

His commitment is now rubbing off on his children, who he says are now also volunteering.

By Juan Romero

The post Longtime Volunteer Finds Community Through The Salvation Army appeared first on The Salvation Army.

“At the time, I didn’t have a job,” she shares. “I was trying to get away from an abusive relationship and all my money basically went to rent and bills.”

A support worker referred her to The Salvation Army’s food bank. With not much money left over for groceries, the assistance Caroline received was crucial.

“It made a difference. I ate thanks to them.”

As someone who struggled with social anxiety, walking in and requesting help seemed daunting, especially since Caroline did not have a car. However, the staff made it easier for her to access the support she needed.

“It was bad. Some days I didn’t even feel like leaving the house,” Caroline recalls. “I was blessed because they let my support worker pick up the food and deliver it to me.”

Over time, Caroline pushed herself to be in situations that challenged her anxiety. Eventually, she started going to the food bank herself.

“I was very nervous and overwhelmed at first when I walked in. Interacting one-on-one with the staff and volunteers made my experience more comfortable. They explained how everything worked,” Caroline adds.

Since then, the kindness she felt each time she visited the food bank has left a lasting impression. The support itself was also significant.

“It made a difference. I ate thanks to them,” Caroline says.

She believes that had it not been for the assistance, she would have had to borrow money from family to make ends meet.

Today, Caroline has a job. She lives with her loyal pet companions and volunteers for the organization.

“To me, this organization means hope for the future.”

“I started attending a Salvation Army church and I found out about the need for volunteers,” Caroline says. “I really enjoy it because it allows me to give back and show my appreciation.”

Right now, she mostly assists the community engagement department by helping host local events, something she considers to be a big step in her personal journey.

“I used to be the one who would want to be behind the scenes and not up front, but that has changed. My social anxiety has been dissipating.”

Now that Caroline finds herself in a much better place, she reflects on her experience and encourages others to seek assistance when needed.

The Salvation Army holds a special place in her heart.

“To me, this organization means hope for the future. They go above and beyond to help people.”

By Juan Romero

The post How Food Bank Support Changed One Women’s Life appeared first on The Salvation Army.

“I was able to pay my bills, but I didn’t have enough income to cover all our expenses,” Courtney shares.

“I didn’t have enough income to cover all our expenses.”

Despite hardship, Courtney was not willing to give up, as this was not the first time she had faced adversity.

When she became a mother, Courtney was still in high school, balancing parenting, limited income and her goal of graduating. Regardless, she persevered.

“It was a struggle, but we made it through.”

Fast forward nearly a decade and Courtney once again found herself facing an uphill battle that she was determined to conquer. She turned to The Salvation Army, where she and her daughter received support.

“I initially connected with Ryan Daw, the community and family services coordinator and he got me set up. At first, I accessed the food bank and later other resources that helped us secure better housing,” Courtney shares.

Although she felt nervous when she first arrived at The Salvation Army, the staff’s welcoming approach helped her feel at ease.

“I accessed the food bank and later other resources.”

The food bank’s support allowed Courtney to free up money for other needs.

“We appreciate it a lot. We are super thankful. The Salvation Army is a great resource,” she adds.

As life improved, Courtney took an interest in helping others. Through her connection with staff, she learned about an opportunity to apply for a job as an outreach worker with The Salvation Army.

Today, she is a couple of weeks into her new role, now on the other side of the assistance she once received.

“I really enjoy helping families secure food,” Courtney says. “It turned out to be a great fit.”

Having experienced struggles herself, Courtney believes her past experiences help her better relate to clients as she understands what they are going through.

For other mothers who might be struggling financially, Courtney reminds them that support is available at The Salvation Army.

“We are all here ready to give a helping hand.”

Reflecting on her journey, Courtney is proud of how far she has come. While she feels a bit anxious about watching her daughter grow up, she is grateful to have been able to provide for her.

By Juan Romero 

The post A Mother’s Journey with The Salvation Army appeared first on The Salvation Army.

Since EDS is largely run by volunteers, preparing the next generation is essential.

In Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador, youth training programs are available for teens who hope to become leaders, gain hands-on skills and serve their communities.

Focusing on Long-Term Impact

Trevor McLellan, EDS specialist in Ontario, says the goal is to prepare for the future.

“This project is like a long-term investment,” he says. “Our participants, who are also members of the Woodstock Sea Cadets, will likely stay on as Salvation Army volunteers for many years.”

Training typically takes place on weekends, with youth participating in activities that support EDS operations. It’s not all just theory and practice; through their involvement, they can contribute to real emergency responses.

“There’s so much behind-the-scenes stuff that they can do as part of their development. They create print material and do street outreach. These are things the kids can and love doing,” Trevor adds.

The experience participants gain through this program also provides them with transferable skills they can apply in everyday life and future careers, including planning food services and learning about emotional and spiritual care.

“You don’t have to wait for a disaster to learn how to think six steps in advance,” Trevor says.

Recently, the group demonstrated their impact by repurposing a mobile cargo unit into a communications trailer.

“These fantastic kids were able to help us rebuild it from the inside out,” Adam Marshall, director of EDS in Ontario, shares. “The value these volunteers bring us is significant.”

Engaging with Teens in New Ways

In June 2025 EDS team leaders, Sandra Lush and Robyn Courtney were approached to consider piloting a youth program in Deer Lake, N.L. It eventually launched in September and will run until June. This initiative was created to engage more with younger generations.

“There was a need to connect more with our young people and we found a creative way to do so,” Sandra says.

The group meets monthly, combining practice with community involvement. Participants have developed abilities in cooking and food service while supporting toy drives and other local events. They have also visited fire departments and search-and-rescue teams to gain insight into emergency response. 

“We always have them doing something different,” Robyn says. “They are training in a kitchen or EDS truck. They are also developing their social skills.”

While still in its pilot phase, the program in Deer Lake has shown positive signs. The teens appear enthusiastic and are starting to embrace volunteerism. Sandra, Robyn, as well as EDS volunteer leads Nadine Spence and Ryan Whalen, have worked hard to create an experience that is both educational and fun.

“It’s really important for us to instill in our teens that it’s important to give up your time to help others,” Sandra says.

Looking Ahead

As these initiatives grow, it prepares new generations of volunteers to serve their communities for years to come.

In 2025, 132,840 visits for assistance were made to The Salvation Army when disaster struck.

By Juan Romero  

The post Salvation Army Trains Youth to Serve Their Communities appeared first on The Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army has once again received accreditation from Imagine Canada, demonstrating the highest levels of governance, accountability and transparency.

Imagine Canada is the umbrella organization for the Canadian charitable and nonprofit sector, and its standards for accreditation are stringent. Achieving accreditation reflects organizations’ leadership through excellence in five key areas: board governance, financial accountability and transparency, fundraising, human resources and volunteer involvement.

This is the third time The Salvation Army has successfully achieved accreditation , representing more than 15 years of continuous accredited status.

“This sustained commitment has helped embed a culture of excellence across the organization, strengthening our focus on best practices in multiple disciplines,” says Lt-Colonel Neil Watt. “Accreditation through Imagine Canada enables us to demonstrate to the public and our donors that we are operating at the highest standards and are worthy of their trust and support.”

The Imagine Canada Accreditation is a transformative process that awards a Trustmark to organizations meeting these rigorous standards. This widely recognized symbol signals to donors, funders, staff and volunteers that their goodwill is in good hands.

“Credit for achieving accreditation belongs to the senior leadership of The Salvation Army, whose support is essential to the process, as well as to the staff and board members who actively contribute,” adds Lt-Colonel Watt. “While gathering the required information can be a lengthy process, it is met with a shared sense of pride in our ability to meet and uphold these standards.”

According to Bruce MacDonald, president and CEO of Imagine Canada, achieving Imagine Canada Accreditation is a powerful signal of leadership among accredited organizations. “These organizations have shown an unwavering commitment to prioritizing transparency, good governance and operational excellence. It not only reinforces public trust, but also creates a solid foundation for their organization’s future.”

Learn more about Imagine Canada Accreditation on their website.

The post The Salvation Army is Reaccredited by Imagine Canada appeared first on The Salvation Army.

With this enhancement, the new Short-Term Engagement Program (STEP) will begin operation, serving individuals in recovery by providing immediate shelter and access to resources that could help them secure long-term housing.

“Our partnership with The Salvation Army expands much-needed emergency shelter beds in the community and supports their STEP initiative’s sober-living, substance-free approach,” says Victoria Mayor, Marianne Alto.

Executive Director of The Salvation Army Victoria ARC, Jonathan Hopkins, says the development is needed locally.

“Last summer, as part of the city’s strategic plan, they released Victoria’s Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan,” he says. “One of their points was to highlight the need for more sober living housing and that fit well with what we do here.”

“Expansion means we can extend our reach and widen our impact.”

The additional beds are a continuation of a previous expansion at ARC. In 2024, the shelter increased its capacity from 21 to 53 to provide people living in encampments with an opportunity for safe accommodation. Jonathan believes the success of that initial growth helped pave the way for the most recent development.

“Expansion means we can extend our reach and widen our impact,” Jonathan shares. “We have seen our model be successful. We’ve seen people come through our program who later found housing.”

ARC is more than just an emergency shelter. Residents receive support related to recovery, mental health, employment and assistance accessing other services based on their needs.

It’s crucial for us to have spaces where individuals can recover safely.”

According to Jonathan, the community has reacted positively to the expansion.

“People wanted to see something happen because they’re tired of seeing people hungry and neighbours living on the streets during a toxic drug crisis,” he adds.

A survey conducted in 2025 revealed a five percent increase in homelessness in Victoria since 2023. To tackle these growing issues, organizations within the city, such as The Salvation Army, have implemented measures to reduce the number of unhoused individuals.

Although the expansion at ARC is a positive development, community support is always appreciated, as it could lead to further growth in services in the future.

“Recovery is an option and it works. But it’s crucial for us to have spaces where individuals can recover safely,” Jonathan concludes.

By Juan Romero

The post New Shelter Beds and Recovery Support in Victoria appeared first on The Salvation Army.

Enterprising Youth is open to participants aged 10 to 15. Over nearly three months, students meet once a week to learn entrepreneurial concepts, prepare plans for a potential product and present their ideas.

“We are teaching them how to gain income, what it is, how to deal with expenses and pay bills, all the basics. The idea is that hopefully one day they start a business,” says Heather Ortiz, community program coordinator.  

“We are teaching them how to gain income, what it is, how to deal with expenses and pay bills, all the basics.”

The program was created in partnership with the organization Seeds of Hope and two university professors. Mary Han and Dr. Nikhil Celly, who developed the curriculum. The initiative began online during the pandemic and has since transitioned to in-person sessions. Currently, 21 students take part, nearly doubling participation from the first year.

Throughout their involvement students develop a business plan, create a product and sell it. They present their ideas to judges who provide constructive feedback. Those who earn enough to cover their initial expenses can keep their profits.

“We are going to host a sale right after church. They’ll also be selling to their friends and neighbours as well,” Heather adds.

Students get creative with their ideas. Products include picture frames, candles, food and traditional cultural drinks.

The Yorkwoods Community Church is located in the Jane and Finch area of Toronto. A neighbourhood often associated with insecurity and limited opportunities, but within lies a community full of drive and ambition.

“With this program, we are trying to give children hope for the future, keep them off the streets and focused on something positive,” Heather shares.

Those looking to support Enterprising Youth can contribute through donations or by volunteering.

“We are trying to give children hope for the future, keep them off the streets and focused on something positive.”

“Our volunteers are known as ‘mentors, ‘ and they guide the children through the whole process, helping them with their entrepreneurial plans and encouraging them to reinforce all the concepts they learn,” Heather says.

Many participants return each year. To keep the experience engaging, new ideas and lessons are introduced that support the main concept.

Heather admits Enterprising Youth is one of her favourite initiatives. She loves seeing participants grow and develop new skills.

In addition to learning about business, students build social skills through teamwork. There are also icebreaker games and a Bible component.

The Salvation Army, along with its partners, is giving children the opportunity to think about a prosperous future from an early age while also teaching them important lessons they don’t always learn in school.

By Juan Romero

The post Salvation Army Program Empowers Young Entrepreneurs appeared first on The Salvation Army.

Turning Gratitude into Support

Assia Said from Edmonton began volunteering in 2017, driven by her own experience receiving support from a Salvation Army thrift store during a difficult time. To express her gratitude, she felt it was right to give back.

“I was inspired because I love what the organization does locally. They helped me when I was down, so I felt I had to contribute as well,” Assia shares.

Since then, Assia has taken on many roles, including working in warehouses, assembling food hampers and supporting their distribution to individuals and families in need. Her fluency in Arabic and French also allows her to assist newcomer families.

In addition to her regular contributions, Assia is a member of the local Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) team. During crises, she has stepped up, providing meals to victims of wildfires and other emergencies.

“I used to be a chef, so it was an easy transition for me to start cooking in the EDS canteen. I loved helping people, especially because many of them had just lost their houses and everything they owned, so being there offering food and support meant a lot,” she adds.

Assia has encountered many clients who have thanked her for the support. This motivates her to keep coming back to The Salvation Army. She also aims to set a good example for her children, emphasizing that humans are meant to help one another.

Making the Most of Free Time

For Brenda Verkerk from Vancouver, her volunteer role is different but equally important. Each Friday, she arrives at The Salvation Army to get everything ready for the day. This includes preparing the emergency hamper distribution and ensuring the community fridge is fully stocked.

She sets up tables and sanitizes spaces, creating a welcoming environment for clients. Brenda is happy to assist wherever she is needed.

“I always ask if there is anything they would like me to do. Even when I have some free time, I grab a broom and start cleaning,” Brenda says.

After retiring early, Brenda looked for ways to give back to her community. She was impressed and motivated to volunteer for The Salvation Army after learning about the organization’s impact.

“It was eye-opening; I did not know these services even existed.”

Through her work, Brenda has built connections with staff and guests. She says that being able to brighten someone’s day is what keeps her coming back and encourages others to volunteer.

“If you can afford a little bit of time, I would say, do it. It is truly rewarding,” Brenda says.

Unsung Heroes

These volunteers working behind the scenes prove that every contribution matters. Thanks to their dedication, The Salvation Army can serve hundreds of communities across Canada.

For more information visit SalvationArmy.ca/volunteer.

By Juan Romero

The post Volunteers Who Make a Difference Behind the Scenes appeared first on The Salvation Army.