The idea for this initiative grew from seeing food bank clients silently waiting for their appointments to begin.

“Manna Café really highlights for them that they’re not alone in their struggle.”

“We used to have chairs lined up in a hallway. People sat there to wait for their turn to go into the food bank, but it felt very institutional,” Lieutenant Josh Edwards, leader at The Salvation Army in Simcoe, explains.

Staff members began serving coffee to guests and eventually moved the waiting area to a space with tables to encourage conversation among clients.

As this simple initiative became more popular, some regulars of the food bank began attending the Manna Café even when they didn’t have an appointment, simply for the chance to spend time with others.

“All of us at the café began having more whole conversations rather than quick small talk,” Lieutenant Josh adds.

The Manna Café’s success led to a foyer renovation. This new model has been in place since May and includes a coffee bar with running water, a fridge and additional tables.

It now also welcomes anyone in the community, not just food bank clients.

Visitors can drop in without an appointment and enjoy coffee, treats and conversation as well as receive emotional and spiritual care. The café is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 to 4 p.m.

“Lately we have welcomed more members of the community who are experiencing homelessness.”

Lieutenant Josh is happy to see the evolution of the program. He recognizes that many people, especially those dealing with personal hardships, can feel isolated, so having this space available is important.

“Manna Café really highlights for them that they’re not alone in their struggle,” he adds. “Lately we have welcomed more members of the community who are experiencing homelessness.”

While the social aspect is the main focus, getting to know neighbours better also allows staff to learn more about those they serve and provide them with information about other programs and resources that could benefit them.

Staff are also looking into ways to grow the space even more.

“We’re in talks right now with local Public Health about the possibility of running a vaccine clinic at the Manna Café. So it’s really evolving, which is cool to see,” Lieutenant Josh says.

The café also provides free bread to those who need it. This assistance is made possible by partnerships with local grocery stores that donate it to The Salvation Army.

In addition, the space can serve as a place for people to cool down in the summer or escape the cold in the winter.

Overall, what started as a simple spot to enjoy a coffee and chat has developed into a place where visitors can connect while accessing additional supports.

Looking ahead, Lieutenant Josh hopes to expand Manna Café’s hours so it can open in the morning, which would allow staff to potentially introduce more programs and services.

By Juan Romero

The post Manna Café Turns Waiting into an Opportunity for Connection appeared first on The Salvation Army.

Beginning Oct. 7, it will host a free community meal on the first Wednesday of every month from 4 to 6 p.m.

The goal is to encourage connection. Launching it on the eve of Thanksgiving is fitting, as it is a time when people and families come together.

“We want to bring everyone around our table so they have an opportunity to chat and get to know each other better,” says Major Dena Hepditch, pastor at Glenmore Temple.

The idea for the community meal grew from seeing different groups of people interacting at church. Major Dena found it meaningful to see longtime members connecting with participants of The Salvation Army’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program every Sunday, despite communication barriers.

“While this program will help people facing food insecurity, it is not just for them,” Major Dena explains. “We intend to bring in everybody.”

Working families, newcomers, church members, volunteers, seniors, food bank clients and those experiencing homelessness are all welcome to attend.

“We aim to get people from all walks of life to come,” Major Dena adds.

These meals will also allow The Salvation Army to learn more about its neighbours and introduce them to programs and services available, such as senior initiatives, youth groups and grief support.

Volunteers from the ESL program and members of the church will help prepare and serve dinner.

Glenmore Celebrates Thanksgiving

While the community meal will be an ongoing event, Glenmore Temple has also planned a specific activity to commemorate Thanksgiving.

During the church service on Oct. 11, the congregation will collect new socks and underwear. These items will be given to The Salvation Army’s outreach team in Calgary, which will distribute them to individuals living on the streets who need basic necessities.

Major Dena hopes to make the donation experience memorable by encouraging attendees to throw their packages into large baskets, similar to the popular holiday charity tradition of a teddy bear toss.

“There should be joy in giving. We can make it fun,” she says. “It’s a small gift on our part, but it could mean the world to someone without them.”

By Juan Romero

The post Thanksgiving Season Marks the Launch of New Community Meal in Calgary appeared first on The Salvation Army.

She has witnessed complete transformations, with individuals who arrived while experiencing homelessness and addiction later finding recovery.

A Second Chance

Chandra-Lee recalls a particular case that stands out to her to this day. It was that of a man who was frequently visited by Salvation Army outreach teams while he was unhoused for more than a decade. When he decided it was time to seek assistance, that action changed his life.

“We saw him for 11 years and during this time he never came into treatment with us,” Chandra-Lee, who currently serves as assistant executive director for social mission. says, “Eventually he decided to go to Harbour Light and after going through the recovery process, he joined our team. He has been one of our residential care workers for the last four years and has maintained his sobriety for 14 years.”

This client’s story is just one example of many. Chandra-Lee says several members of the staff at Harbour Light are individuals who have taken part in Salvation Army programs themselves. This not only shows that people can find second chances, but also that those who have experienced hardship themselves can go on to support others.  

“Many of our former clients come back because they feel a sense of loyalty or a strong need to want to give back,” Chandra-Lee adds.

Journey to Recovery

The services Harbour Light provides go beyond shelter and addiction support. In recent years, programming has expanded to help clients navigate their transition more effectively, with literacy and basic life skills programs.

Rather than expecting immediate change, staff work patiently with residents as they take steps toward recovery.

“When they come and step into treatment, they’re not going to fix their problems right away,” Chandra-Lee says. “But while they are living with us, we patiently guide them so they can personally progress in their lives.”

Community Assistance Makes a Difference

Recently, the turnover of residents has been higher than it was in previous years. This means that some clients are finding stability more quickly. The staff’s dedication is essential in providing this support, along with those in the community who make The Salvation Army’s programs possible.

One big help to the organization comes from the partnerships it has built.

“We have always welcomed collaboration. We have connections with agencies that provide addiction services as well as other churches who send volunteers to assist at our food bank and street outreach programs,” Chandra-Lee shares.

Reflecting on her tenure with The Salvation Army, Chandra-Lee feels honoured to be a part of a team that consistently makes a difference in people’s lives.

“Initially, I wasn’t planning to work with The Salvation Army, but almost 30 years later I am still here,” Chandra-Lee says. “It’s rewarding to see people’s transformations.”

For more information on The Salvation Army in Bermuda, visit https://salvationarmy.bm/

By Juan Romero

The post Twenty-eight Years Transforming Lives at The Salvation Army  appeared first on The Salvation Army.

It started with a small group from Booth University College. 

In 2023, they signed up for The Salvation Army’s Santa Shuffle in Winnipeg, ready for a fun day outside the classroom and a chance to support a cause close to their community. They came together to run. They kept coming back for something more. 

For the group, the Santa Shuffle is about more than completing a 5K. It is a chance to step outside the building, spend time together and support The Salvation Army’s work in Winnipeg all while having a little fun along the way. 

And their group grows every year. 

“This will be our fourth ‘Fun Run’! I’m so glad we decided to be a part of it. We anticipate it with a smile every year. It’s part of our Christmas joy!” – Dr. Isaiah Allen

What began with a handful of participants has grown into a group that welcomes experienced runners, first-timers and everyone in between. The goal is not to be the fastest. It is to show up, encourage one another, and enjoy the day. 

One member of the group takes that encouragement to a step further. 

Each year, one of the group’s more experienced runners completes the course twice. After finishing the first 5K, they turn around and run another 5K not to chase a faster time, but to return to the course and cheer on their teammates. 

One lap to run. One more to cheer. 

That spirit of encouragement is what makes the Santa Shuffle special for the Booth University College community. It is not about who crosses the finish line first. It is about who is beside you when you get there. 

On race day, the Sturgeon Creek course becomes a meeting place for people of all ages and walks of life. Costumed mascots, dedicated volunteers, runners in serious race gear and participants dressed in festive costumes all come together for the same purpose: to support the work of The Salvation Army in Winnipeg. 

For the Booth University College group, some of the best moments happen between the start and finish. 

There are festive costumes and costumed mascots. Dedicated volunteers line the event. Some runners arrive in serious running gear, while others embrace the season from head to toe. First-timers find encouragement from seasoned runners, and friends become cheerleaders for one another.  

Then, when the running is done, the day continues around a hot lunch near the finish line. 

It is these simple moments that have turned the Santa Shuffle into something the group anticipates every autumn. 

Four years after that first run, the group is still growing and still showing up. 

Their story is a reminder that traditions do not always begin with a big plan. Sometimes, they start with a small group saying, “Let’s do this,” and come back the following year. 

Then again. 

And again. 

Until a fun run becomes a tradition, a tradition becomes a community gathering, and a few runners become part of something much bigger. 

This December, the Santa Shuffle will once again bring Winnipeg together for a morning of movement, laughter, connection and giving one festive step at a time.

The post One Lap to Run. One More to Cheer. Four Years to Remember.  appeared first on The Salvation Army.

By Simran Rambhia

In St. John’s, The Salvation Army’s Ches Penney Centre of Hope and Wiseman Centre work together to offer support at different points along a person’s journey from meeting immediate needs like food and connection to providing housing and support that can help someone move toward greater independence. 

And behind that support are people who choose to show up, too. 

“I wanted to volunteer with an organization that really helps others, and this event (Santa Shuffle) was it! I needed this for school, and the process was so simple to get involved. This was so fun, and knowing all the money goes to help others is just icing on the cake.” – Josh

At The Salvation Army’s Wiseman Centre, 10 supportive housing units help tenants work toward greater independence. Staff provide individualized support with personal, financial, hygiene and basic home needs, while working with external case management and mental health support. 

But support does not end when someone leaves. 

Every Monday, former residents return to the Wiseman Centre for a warm meal and a chance to reconnect with staff and peers. Meal Mondays are a reminder that the door remains open. 

At The Salvation Army Ches Penney Centre of Hope, support looks different. Located on Springdale Street, the Centre helps individuals and families facing food insecurity with low-barrier emergency food assistance every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. More than 150 families receive support each week. 

Three days a week, the Centre also serves hot, home-cooked meals in its dining room. More than 600 meals are served each week, providing food and a place to connect. 

That support also reaches beyond the Centre. 

For approximately two and a half years, The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services unit has provided street ministry and a feeding program in the community. Meals are prepared by the Centre of Hope’s chef, with 10–20 volunteers helping each week to serve 80 or more meals. 

Sometimes, they run out of food a clear sign of the need in the community. 

The Ches Penney Centre of Hope also offers a Harm Reduction Walk-In Clinic, where people can access services such as naloxone and overdose prevention education, wound care, substance-use support, and referrals to housing, mental health, treatment and primary healthcare. 

There is no single path to support. 

For one person, it may begin with a meal. For another, supportive housing may provide a foundation for independence. Someone else may find help through the harm reduction clinic. 

Different services. Different needs. One shared purpose: meeting people where they are and helping them move forward. 

Through The Santa Shuffle, you help support this work in St. John’s. Every step and every fundraiser helps keep food, housing support, connection and essential services within reach for people who need them. 

Because sometimes, hope does not begin with a life-changing moment. 

Sometimes, it begins with an open door.

The post Where One Open Door Can Lead to Another appeared first on The Salvation Army.

“I had to use my savings as survival money.”

Both of his parents were dealing with personal challenges and Justin always tried to be there for them. At one point, a family dispute forced him to move away. During this period, Justin was between jobs, so the transition was tough.

“I had to use my savings as survival money,” Justin shares.

Although a friend rented him a room, Justin still needed to make sure he could afford it. This is when he decided to turn to The Salvation Army’s food bank in Listowel, Ont.

“When I walked into my first appointment, I was feeling low and depressed,” Justin recalls.

After leaving the food bank with groceries, he had a sense of much-needed stability during a time of uncertainty.

“The experience made me feel empowered. I realized things were going to be OK because at least I had my necessities,” Justin says.

Shortly after, he found employment and did not need to access The Salvation Army’s services for a while. However, a workplace injury later forced him to take some time off, creating another period of financial hardship.

“I realized things were going to be OK.”

Once again, the food bank provided a safety net for Justin.

“That support was the difference that allowed me to pay rent, phone and bills,” Justin says.

This assistance gradually helped him get his finances in order.

Justin likes to be active, works hard and is always open to additional job opportunities. His passion, however, is music. He is a versatile artist who sings and plays multiple instruments. Soon, he will release his first album, an exciting step forward in his career.

“It’s already recorded and it’s now just sitting on the sidelines,” Justin shares. “I am already booking gigs in advance, so this is pretty mind-blowing for me.”

While things are clearly taking a positive turn, Justin does not forget the impact The Salvation Army had on his life.

“The staff were always heartwarming,” he says. “Something that always stood out to me was seeing other clients leave the food bank with a grateful expression on their face.”

Justin is extremely thankful for the support and now is looking forward to giving back to the organization.

“They helped me out so much that I am planning to volunteer for The Salvation Army in the future.”

By Juan Romero

The post Musician Reflects on Salvation Army Support appeared first on The Salvation Army.

The Santa Shuffle may take place on one festive morning, but in Calgary, its impact lasts all year. It can be found in a family’s food hamper, a child’s new backpack, a summer camp experience, or a Christmas gift waiting under the tree. Behind every fundraiser is a simple choice to help and a family who feels that kindness. 

“I have participated in The Santa Shuffle almost every year since it started in Calgary. I do it because I know the need is great, and The Salvation Army does such a good job of helping others.” — Bob

For Bob, The Santa Shuffle is more than a community event. It is a way to respond to a need he knows is great. Through funds raised in Calgary, The Salvation Army Community Services and Berkshire Citadel support families with practical help throughout the year. 

In Calgary, Santa Shuffle funds support programs through The Salvation Army Community Services and Berkshire Citadel, helping provide practical assistance to individuals and families when they need it most. 

At Community Services, support reaches children and young people in ways that can shape their experiences throughout the year. Funds help provide Christmas gifts, backpacks for children returning to school, and opportunities for young people to attend Salvation Army camps. 

At Berkshire Citadel, approximately 25 families receive assistance every Wednesday. Santa Shuffle funds help add fresh food to the dry and canned goods distributed to families, helping put more nutritious food on their tables. 

But sometimes, helping a family means recognizing a need that cannot be solved with a food hamper alone. 

One family first came to Berkshire Citadel through the food bank after both parents lost their jobs. Their children needed support, and the community stepped in. The family received food assistance; the children were given the opportunity to attend camp and, when one of the boys desperately needed glasses, support was provided to help him get a pair. 

For another family, the holidays arrived at a difficult time. A mother was preparing for surgery just before Christmas and did not have the money to buy presents for her children. The Salvation Army delivered gifts to the family, bringing some joy to a season filled with uncertainty. 

At Berkshire Citadel, 65 people came together for a Christmas dinner where children received gifts. Some families shared that without support, they might not have had Christmas at all. 

And the spirit of giving is not limited to those receiving support. 

At last year’s Santa Shuffle, a young hockey team volunteered to help set up tents. It was cold, but the young players worked hard and were grateful for the opportunity to contribute. Their involvement became another reminder that giving can take many forms. Sometimes it is a donation, sometimes it is a fundraiser, and sometimes it is simply showing up and lending a hand. 

Race becomes a meal. 
A fundraiser becomes fresh food. 
A backpack becomes a confident start to the school year.
A camp experience becomes a childhood memory.
A gift becomes a Christmas a family thought they might not have.

Your steps can become someone else’s brighter day. Join the Santa Shuffle and help keep generosity moving through Calgary all year long.

The post Calgary Keeps the Spirit of Generosity Alive  appeared first on The Salvation Army.

For Tracy Desjarlais, The Salvation Army’s Indigenous liaison for public affairs and emergency disaster services (EDS), collaboration goes beyond providing services. Instead, it means working together and opening paths for conversation that lead to mutual understanding.

“In my role, I am able to educate Salvation Army staff on cultural aspects of First Nations.”

“The reciprocity of sharing First Nation culture with The Salvation Army and the organization supporting Indigenous communities is a two-way street,” Tracy says.

In B.C., EDS delivered fire skids to First Nations across the province. The equipment helps those in remote areas temporarily control potential wildfires.

In Kenora, Ont., the local Salvation Army received an EDS response vehicle to assist with emergencies in the nearby Grand Council Treaty 3 region.

After flooding forced the Red Earth and Shoal Lake Cree Nations in Saskatchewan to evacuate, The Salvation Army delivered food hampers to both communities when members returned home. 

“Those who received support from The Salvation Army were very grateful. We also offered emergency response training as a way to enhance our partnerships,” Tracy adds.

In Toronto and Kahnawake, Que., The Salvation Army was invited to take part in powwows. At both events, EDS trucks served refreshments to attendees.

Taking part in these celebrations gave Salvation Army staff an opportunity to learn more about Indigenous culture while connecting with community members. EDS teams also shared information on the organization’s emergency response initiatives, its work raising awareness of Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) and volunteer opportunities.

For Tracy, who is from the Piapot First Nation in Saskatchewan, it is an honour to be in a position that allows her to connect The Salvation Army with Indigenous communities. She sees the work as a step forward in Truth and Reconciliation.

“I have also been able to sit down with Indigenous leaders and Elders to explain all the different ways in which The Salvation Army assists people across Canada.”

“In my role, I am able to educate Salvation Army staff on cultural aspects of First Nations,” she says. “I have also been able to sit down with Indigenous leaders and Elders to explain all the different ways in which The Salvation Army assists people across Canada. I think this has increased trust in the organization.”

As The Salvation Army continues to collaborate with First Nations communities, Tracy believes listening, learning and sharing knowledge will remain important in strengthening these relationships.

By Juan Romero

The post Salvation Army Builds Strong Relationships with Indigenous Communities appeared first on The Salvation Army.

After a workplace injury left him unable to work, Sylvain Gonthier’s life quickly unraveled. Struggling with addiction during the opioid crisis, he lost his home, his family, and hope for the future. To complete community service, Sylvain connected with The Salvation Army—a moment that would change everything.

The post From Homelessness to Hope: Sylvain’s Story (WATCH) appeared first on The Salvation Army.

Imagine arriving somewhere with little more than the clothes you are wearing, unsure of what tomorrow will bring. Then you walk through the door and find that someone has already thought about what you might need.

That is the kind of welcome The Salvation Army creates for people staying at Cedar Place in Sudbury.

Funds raised through this year’s Santa Shuffle will support three projects that bring comfort, dignity and care to families: healthy lunches for children, a renewed outdoor space and welcome packages for new clients.

Each meets a simple need. Together, they help families feel cared for as they take their next step.

A Lunch That Lifts a Worry

For families experiencing homelessness, everyday concerns can become overwhelming. The school lunch program helps ease one of those worries by providing nutritious food and snacks so children staying at Cedar Place have healthy, packed lunches for school each day.

For Ashley, a parent at Cedar Place, that support has made a meaningful difference for her family.

“The school lunch program has greatly helped my family during our stay at Cedar Place by allowing me to focus on finding safe housing and by taking away the stress of worrying about being able to afford healthy, full lunches.”

When a parent is working toward finding a safe home, knowing their child has a nutritious lunch to take to school can provide one less thing to worry about.

A Garden That Grows More Than Vegetables

Outside Cedar Place, the children’s play area and community garden have been revitalized to create a safe and welcoming space for women and families.

For Lana, a Cedar Place client, gardening is more than a pastime. It is something that connects her to her family and brings her a sense of peace.

“My name is Lana and I have grown up gardening most of my life. My grandparents and parents taught me how and now I have their ‘green thumb!’ I find it very relaxing and rewarding to watch it grow. Nothing like fresh veggies from the garden.”

At Cedar Place, the outdoor space offers a chance to slow down, breathe and enjoy simple moments together. Children can play, parents can connect, and watching a seed grow into something new can bring a little joy and a sense of hope.

A Welcome From the Moment They Arrive

For someone arriving at The Salvation Army, the first moments can carry uncertainty. A welcome package filled with clothing, personal hygiene products and other essentials can offer something simple but powerful: the feeling that their needs matter.

As a Cedar Place staff member explains:

“When someone arrives at Cedar Place, we want them to feel welcomed, cared for, and reminded that their needs matter. These hygiene welcome bags are a small way we can offer comfort, dignity, and a fresh start as they begin their journey with us.” 

These packages are more than bags of necessities. They are a first gesture of care a reminder to every woman and family arriving at Cedar Place that they are not alone.

More than the things we give

A lunch can become relief.

A garden can become a connection.

A welcome package can become dignity. 

By taking part in The Salvation Army Santa Shuffle, you can help make these moments possible for women and families at Cedar Place. Lace up, join the run and help create a little more comfort, hope and support for someone who needs it.

It is about helping people feel cared for as they find their way forward.

The post More Than a Meal, More Than a Garden, More Than a Welcome appeared first on The Salvation Army.