Who We Are
Last year, The Salvation Army of Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties impacted 71,334 lives.
We offer a wide variety of outreach services ranging from help with utility bills to residential substance abuse program for men and a residential program for families and women.
Outreach services include:
- Family Services Unit and Emergency Shelter (11,138 bed nights)
- Crossroads Substance Abuse Recover (406 clients)
- Medical Respite Unit (3,097 bed nights)
- Federal and State Corrections (250 clients)
- Transitional Housing (6 client)
- Rapid Rehousing (145 families)
- Bob Janes Triage Center/Low Demand Shelter (1,129 clients)
- Meals served to residential clients (189,310)
- Emergency Needs/Food Pantry ( 18,088 individuals; 7,675 families)
- Meals With Compassion – Outreach Service Center (20,849 meals)
- Health Care for Homeless Clinic (2,500 patients treated; 2,176 no-cost prescriptions)
- Elderly persons visited (1,859 with 2,786 gifts given)
- Christmas gifts to children (30,183)
- Summer away campers (102)
- Clients served in Glades County (1,748)
- Bonita Springs clients served (basic needs assistance, mental health counseling – 3,999) (family food bags -8,105)
- Hendry County clients served (family support services – 1,072), (food bags – 2,911)
How did 170 employees accomplish so much? With the help of 4,493 volunteers who served 25,923 hours!
Learn how you can Do the Most Good>>>
Leadership
Area Commanders Majors Timothy and Cheryl Gilliam
Majors Tim and Cheryl Gilliam oversee all programs (both social services and ministry) administered by The Salvation Army in Lee, Hendry and Glades counties.
Salvation Army officers for nearly 20 years, Majors Gilliam have served as Corps Officers (pastors) in Texas and Area Commanders in Waco, Texas. They have also overseen divisional youth services in Maryland and in West Virginia. Prior to their move to Fort Myers, the Gilliams served four years in St. Petersburg, Florida, where Major Tim was Area Commander and Major Cheryl was the Corps Officer at the St. Petersburg Citadel.
Majors Tim and Cheryl, and their three children – Jacob, serving as Salvation Army corps Assistant in Tyler, Texas; Ashleigh, a freshman at Florida Gulf Coast University; and Michael, a seventh grader – are enjoying this time in Fort Myers and Southwest Florida.
“We love our ministry as Salvation Army officers,” commented Major Tim Gilliam. “We’re always excited to see what the Holy Spirit is going to do next, because we enjoy serving and bringing hope into the lives of those in need.”
Corps Officers Lieutenants Christopher and Elyse Doborwicz
Welcome Lts. Christopher and Elyse Doborwicz and daughter Everely!
Speakers Bureau
Would you like a speaker at your next meeting?
The Salvation Army Speakers’ Bureau provides a terrific way to learn how we provide services in our community. Get information on how your business or organization can get involved.
Salvation Army speakers come to your business/organization to share their personal experiences and stories and the results of our work.
Suggested topics
- Volunteer opportunities
- The Red Shield Lodge – our emergency shelter
- Outreach services – food pantry, Meals with Compassion, our free evening meal
- Medical and dental services
- Crossroads – our drug and rehabilitation program
- Programs for veterans
- Jail diversion program
- How The Salvation Army responds during a disaster
- The history of the red kettle and how it has become a symbol of hope
- How to make a Planned Gift
Take a tour and visit our Social Services facility and see first-hand the services we provide.
By inviting The Salvation Army to your meeting, you can help us involve more people in Doing the Most Good.
Please complete the form below. >>>
For more information, contact Kris Volpone at (239) 278-1551.
Take a Tour
The Salvation Army is so much more than our iconic Red Kettles. If you haven’t toured to learn about our services, consider joining us soon to see a portion of our life-changing services.
We conduct monthly tours from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
on the first Friday of each month, February through November, at
2400 Edison Avenue, Fort Myers 33901
Call to reserve your space – (239) 278-1551
If the first Friday schedule does not work for you or for your group, we will tailor a tour to meet your needs.
Did you know every year we (figures from 2015)
FIGHT HUNGER by
- feeding 32,759 evening meals (7 days a week, 365 days a year) at Meals With Compassion
- serving 127,945 meals to residential clients (in the shelter, Crossroads, Corrections Programs, and the Bob Janes Triage Center and Low Demand Shelter)
- providing 6,365 food orders at the Lee County Food Pantry (Outreach Service Center)
REACH OUT to
- help 264 families pay their utility bills (Outreach Service Center)
- assist 6,725 people in Bonita Springs, Lehigh Acres, Glades and Hendry counties with a variety of services
- offer independence to families through our Rapid Rehousing Program
OFFER A HAND UP to
- men and women battling addiction and re-entering society after incarceration
GIVE ACCESS TO QUALITY HEALTHCARE
- including We Care specialty services, We Care Dental, and extended stays in our Medical Unit
WANT TO HELP?
For information on how you can help our residents, please contact the Development Office at (239) 278-1551.
The Salvation Army has many locations and services:
Administrative & Corps Office (Church)
10291 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919
(239) 278-1551
Red Shield Lodge (Social Services, Family, Medical and Corrections Services)
2400 Edison Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33901
(239) 334-3745
Bob Janes Triage Center (Low Demand Shelter and Veterans’ Services)
2789 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33905
(239) 275-3222 or (239) 791-0110
Outreach Service Center (Evening Meals With Compassion and Food Pantry)
2476 Edison Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33901
(239) 334-3745
Bonita Springs Mission Station
26820 Old U.S. 41 Rd.., Bonita Springs, FL 34135
(239) 948-5200
Services offered at the Bonita Outreach Center>>>
Clewiston Outreach Center
969 W. Sugarland Hwy, Clewiston, FL 33440
(863) 233-6190
Services offered at the Clewiston Outreach Center>>>
LaBelle Outreach Center
133 N. Bridge St. LaBelle, FL 33935
(863) 674-1441
Services offered at the LaBelle Outreach Center>>>
Lehigh Acres Outreach Center
25 Homestead Road, Unit 42A, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936
(239) 491-6071
Make Donations and shop at our Family Stores (thrift stores)
(239) 337-0955 or (800) SA-TRUCK 1-800-728-7825
- South – 15418 S Tamiami Trl, Fort Myers, FL 33908 (239) 267-9652
- Cape Coral – 4506 Del Prado Blvd, Suite D, Cape Coral, FL 33904 (239) 540-0265
Christmas Cheer 2018
Holiday of Champions
The gift that keeps on giving.
The joy of opening a gift on Christmas is a feeling we can often remember for a lifetime. The hurt a mother may feel from being unable to provide that joy may last a lifetime as well. After being laid off just before the holiday season, a mother is more focused on putting food on the table rather than gifts under the tree. This is the reality that many families have during the holidays. Falling on hard times holds no prejudices, it can happen to anyone at any time. Thankfully, The Salvation Army understands this and has been able to aid those families during Christmas. A mother who needs assistance could call The Salvation Army and register for help.
These are the kind of stories many at The Salvation Army hear during the holiday season and throughout the year. Families falling on hard times and are faced with the reality that Christmas gifts may not be a possibility. The Salvation Army’s Christmas programs help bring hope to discouraged parents and joy to local children. Local churches, organizations, and work groups hosted an Angel Tree that helped donate 30,000 gifts to disadvantaged children throughout the holidays and ring bells at our local kettles to help advocate change in the community throughout the year.
Christmas is a holiday indicative of the phrase tis better to give than to receive. Volunteers, the life-blood of The Salvation Army, take that phrase to heart. Over 6,800 hours were provided by local volunteers to help make Christmas possible for 4,459 children in our communities. Those that volunteered at the Christmas Cheer warehouse also put their time in at The Salvation Army’s iconic Red Kettles.
The Kettle campaign is the single largest fundraiser for the year where many volunteers sign up to ring the bells. Funds raised during the Red Kettle campaign go toward funding the various programs that help support our community year-round. Programs such as its family shelter unit that helps women and children in dire situations with a hand up. Empowering them along their journey back on their feet with life-skills coaching and rehousing initiatives. Helping find stable jobs and providing emotional and spiritual care along the way to champion their own lives.
This year looked very different than years past. Faced with starting bell ringing two weeks later and nearly $100,000 down, The Salvation Army needed a large rally of time and generosity in order to overcome the deficit and continue to serve its communities in the same capacity. Many of those that were once assisted by The Salvation Army give back with their time and efforts that they were once so freely given. Volunteers and generous donors responded bringing the Kettle campaign’s final number to $676,916.
“It’s our volunteers that make this all possible,” said Eric Lane, Kettle campaign coordinator. “As our volunteers were finding out of our deficit whether through the news or word of mouth, we saw many of them put in even more effort than they already had!” Many volunteers who normally volunteer two hours of their time to ringing bells during the holiday season now contributed four. Those that typically donated four hours were taking full days at a kettle stand. Local fire districts began ringing at kettles this year. While doing so the local firemen challenged other fire districts to do the same. “Calling” each other out via social media and challenging them to ring for any amount of time possible.
The Salvation Army is very visible during the holiday season. Its work continues long after the trees are taken down and the kettles are stashed away. The impact is seen in our local communities through The Salvation Army’s various programs. Its family shelter, out-reach programs, Meals with Compassion, Crossroads men’s rehabilitation program, emergency disaster services, just to name a few that are helping people overcome obstacles in their most difficult hour. Providing a light when darkness seems to be closing in and families can experience not only the joy of Christmas, but the joy of life throughout the year.
As the young boy peers around the corner, his eyes wide open in excitement as he sees what is in front of him. He runs back to his bedroom and wakes up his younger sister who rockets out of bed to see what the excitement is about. The two dart into their mother’s bedroom waking her from a peaceful sleep as she slowly opens her eyes. She can feel her children’s vibrant smiles and it warms her heart knowing she was blessed with this opportunity. She slept well knowing that her children would experience this joy. She felt gratitude knowing The Salvation Army was there to help when she fell on hard times.
2018 CHRISTMAS REPORT
FORT MYERS, CAPE CORAL,LEHIGH ACRES
Families Served – 1,714
Individuals – 6,184
Children – 3,555
Toys – 25,717
Clothing – 7,858
Food bags – 1,181
Gifts – 2786
(The gifts include those given to Seniors in the community)
Mass Feeding – 296 on Christmas Day
BONITA SPRINGS
Families Served – 200
Individuals – 973
Children – 443
Toys – 3544
Clothing& Shoes – 1472
Food Bags – 127
Gifts (WC) – 127
HENDRY AND GLADES COUNTIES
Families Served – 164
Individuals Served – 735
Children Served 461
Food Bags –164
Toys -922
VOLUNTEERS:
Fort Myers 1398 volunteers 6854 Hours
(Includes Applications, Warehouse set up, Mass Feeding, Distribution, kettle counters, bell ringers and CCM volunteers)
Bonita Springs “Friends” – 72 Volunteers 246 Hours for Distribution
GIFTS IN KIND
Fort Myers Program – 21,733 Toys, 302 Bicycles, 7,858 Clothing items, and 1,149 pair of shoes
Lee County Schools Food Drive – 82,146 cans, 62 schools participating
Bonita Program – 467 Toys, 1276 clothing items, 200 pair of shoes, and 8 bikes
Hendry and Glades – 924 toys
SPONSORS:
Adopt A Family – 17
Angel Tree Hosts -71
Crisis Services
Sometimes a personal crisis
such as a job layoff, a house fire, an illness, or an injury can set a family back. We may be able to help by providing crisis services such as emergency FOOD and CLOTHING, assistance with UTILITIES, as well as referrals to other community resources to help families and individuals meet basic needs.
Are you behind on rent payments due to a crisis? Now through June, 2017, we have a program that may be able to help. If you have a child in the home, reside in Lee County, and are behind on rent due to a provable crisis, please call (239) 628-1415 on Fridays from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (noon). Leave a message with your name and phone number, and we will return your call to discuss your options and eligibility.
Our Outreach Service Center is located at: 2476 Edison Avenue in Fort Myers.
From the Shelter to a Home
Malaysia happily plays in her new back yard, which includes a huge mango tree.
Sometimes the laughter of a child is exactly what is needed to make a house a home. That’s what happened when the keys to Lakeshia Boyd’s rental house were turned over to her.
Lakeshia, the mother of two small children, was homeless and, as a last resort, came to The Salvation Army for help. After living in the shelter for a few weeks, a house became available, and it was offered to the family.
The furnished house was perfect for the three-person family, but the best part, according to three-year-old Malaysia, was the back yard with her very own mango tree! As Lakeshia put away food and sundries in her kitchen, she could hear Malaysia laughing and watch her picking up mangos from beneath the huge tree.
“This program speaks to the core of our Social Services mission at The Salvation Army,” commented Shannon Cherizier, director of Social Services for The Salvation Army. “It is giving a homeless family, who has experienced huge hardship, the ability to thrive. Once in the home, we equip the family with the tools for self-sufficiency through classes, education, assistance, and continued case management. Not only does the family benefit, the community does as well. It is truly a blessing for the family and the community.”
Gabriel Falk, property manager from That Sweet Rental, hands over the keys to Lakeshia Boyd. Boyd is holding her daughter Malaysia, and daughter Azriah is in carrier on porch.
The Salvation Army works with local realtors to provide housing and connect the family with other organizations as needed.
Cherizier continued, “We expect to place 60 families into homes within the next 12 months, so anything our community can help with will be greatly appreciated. Some of the furniture and appliances in the houses are supplied by the rental agencies, and what is not provided comes from our Family Thrift Stores. We are giving families a hand up out of poverty, and you can help.”
Donations of money and goods are needed to assist these families who come from The Salvation Army shelter and, therefore, have little or nothing when they are placed in their homes. A list of needed items is to the right.
For information on how you can help, contact us at (239) 278-1551.
Please help out by donating the following cleaning supplies for families as they transition from the shelter to their own homes:
- Broom
- Dust pan
- Vacuum
- Dust mop
- Mop
- Bucket
- Bleach
- Laundry detergent
- Dish soap
- Dish towels
- Bath towels
- Toilet bowl brush
- Sponges
- Kitchen dish scrubbers
- Paper towels
- Toilet paper
- Disinfecting wipes
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
Food Assistance
Children cannot do well in school when their stomachs are empty, and it is difficult to hold a job when you have not had enough or anything at all to eat. Last year, with the help of the generosity of those in our community, schools in Lee County, and the purchasing strength of the Harry Chapin Food Bank, The Salvation Army provided food assistance in:
Fort Myers – 4,463 families with food for 225,909 MEALS
Bonita Springs – 238 BAGS of food
Hendry County – 994 INDIVIDUALS received food bags.
The food pantry is housed at our Outreach Service Center (2476 Edison Avenue, Fort Myers 33901). We try to help everyone who comes to us for food or referrals to to other services at The Salvation Army or elsewhere in the community.
Our pantry distributes food on Tuesdays from 9:00-11:00 a.m. and from 1:00-3:00 p.m. Food includes portion-appropriate canned and dried food, perishables such a meat, bread, produce and pastries. Clients may come in Monday through Friday during open hours to help themselves to any bread and produce that is available.
The pantry is in need of any type of canned (pop-top lids when possible) or packaged foods (especially meat, sauces, dried beans and rice, peanut butter and jars of baby food). In addition hygiene items such as diapers, laundry soap and bath items as well as metal can openers are also welcome.
The pantry is largely supported through the work of volunteers who help manage and distribute the food.
Meals With Compassion Anyone in the community who is hungry is invited to dinner at our Outreach Service Center (2476 Edison Avenue, Fort Myers 33901). Dinner is served every evening, seven days a week, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Meals are donated by local restaurants or they are cooked in the kitchen of our Red Shield Lodge. Last year, volunteers served an average of 674 meals per week. Diners have access to a shower station. Because of this, single-use-sized shampoo, soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste, razors and feminine hygiene items are needed. You Can Help! We need individuals and groups who to help serve and/or prepare meals and bring them to our location to be served to our dinner guests. This is an incredible hands-on opportunity to truly serve our neighbors in need. Church groups, civic organizations or businesses can support the program on a regular basis, adopting a day per month or quarter to help us help others throughout the year.
- coordinate a canned food drive
- donate hygiene items (shampoo, laundry soap, diapers, feminine hygiene products, disposable razors, etc.)
- individuals, groups or restaurants can bring in enough dinner for 80 people to Sally’s Cafe
- volunteer to serve dinners
- work at the food pantry
To learn more about these and other community service opportunities contact our volunteer coordinator at 239-278-1551.
FOOD PANTRY NEEDS
- laundry detergent
- inexpensive can openers
- diapers
- towels and wash cloths
MEALS WITH COMPASSION NEEDS
- diapers (for adults and babies)
- feminine hygiene products
- soap
- shampoo
- razors
- men’s shaving foam
- toilet paper
Utilities Assistance
To see if you qualify for assistance, please call and leave a message on Tuesdays from 8:00 a.m. – noon at (239) 628-1417. This is a first-come, first-served service and it does require documentation of certain items. If you qualify for assistance, we will call you (within 48 hours) to schedule an interview.
If you have questions about eligibility or what documentation you need, call our receptionist at (239) 334-3745.
Clothing Vouchers
We assist families with verifiable emergencies with both clothing and furniture vouchers to use at our local Family Thrift Stores. To quality, you must have verification of an emergency.
To see if you qualify, call the Outreach Service Center at (239) 334-3745 to set up an appointment. We accept walk ins on Wednesday-Friday.
The Outreach Service Center is located at
2476 Edison Avenue
Fort Myers, FL 33901
(239) 334-3745
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
Donate clothing to our Family Stores.
For information, contact the Community Relations Office at (239) 278-1551.
Family Store Locations
- 4506 Del Prado S., Cape Coral
(239) 540-0265 - 15418 S. Tamiami Tr., Ft. Myers
(239) 267-9652 - 1855 Boy Scout Dr., Ft. Myers
(239) 628-1147
Shelter
Shelter
With proper resources, shelters provide the range of protection and support services necessary to help people regain independence.
Shelter at The Salvation Army means families stay intact, women are assisted in breaking the cycle of abuse, people secure living wage employment and housing, and
improved quality of life for clients.
The Salvation Army shelter is called the Red Shield Lodge, and homeless women and families find a safe place live within its walls. While in residence, clients are given the life skill tools necessary to lead self-sufficient lives.The Red Shield Lodge is within the Social Services Center at 2400 Edison Avenue. Single women, women and/or men with children, and families reside at the shelter up to 90 days depending on the progress they make toward their individual goals.
Our social workers help residents identify barriers to independence and provide guidance to obtain success in those areas. This includes life skills classes, employment assistance, case management, and connection to community resources.
Clients meet regularly with our staff to determine their goals and staff members help clients create individualized action plans.
If you or someone you know is in need of our shelter services, please call (239) 334.3745.
Help our clients to independence
As our clients move into their own homes, these items are needed:
- Paper products (toilet paper, paper towels, napkins)
- Cleaning supplies (broom, mop, cleaning and laundry detergents, sponges, vacuum cleaner, toilet brush, dish soap)
- Personal hygiene products (tooth brush and tooth paste, razors and shaving cream, deodorant, sanitary products, soap, shampoo, conditioner)
Please bring items to any of our locations.
Questions? Call 334-3745.
Healthcare Services
The Salvation Army provides, through the We Care program, a variety of healthcare – medical and dental – services through the collaboration of qualified volunteers and staff.
We Care is a partnership between The Salvation Army and the United Way, with support from community agencies and local dental and healthcare providers. We Care offers both comprehensive specialty medical and dental care services. We Care is Lee County’s only resource for limited, no-cost care.
We Care of Lee County – Coordination of Specialty Medical Care
We Care is a medical specialty referral and case management program. Medical care is provided by physicians and other healthcare professionals who provide their services voluntarily.
Healthcare services are provided to patients who are between the ages of 19-64 and who meet specified guidelines.
Providers of these specialty healthcare services are protected by sovereign immunity, as defined in section 766.1115, Florida Statutes.
Eligibility
- income criteria is 200% of the defined federal poverty level
- must have an acute medical condition which cannot be treated/managed by a primary care physician
- reside in Lee County for at least six months
- uninsured and not eligible for any source which would pay for the needed services (i.e., vocational rehabilitation, workman’s comp, litigation, VA, Medicaid, Medicare, etc.).
Ineligible
primary care, second opinions, motor vehicle accidents, injuries or illnesses that occurred in other states or countries, cosmetic surgery, disability or disability claims, epilepsy, screenings, worker’s compensation claims, pregnancy, infertility, birth control, litigation cases, substance abuse, elective surgery, any chronic illness such as hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, Chron’s disease, Alzheimer’s, pain management, emergency room or ambulance costs, or medical expenses already incurred. We Care is not an insurance agent and does not pay providers.
Referrals
Cases must be referred by a primary care physician, clinic, or other medical facility.
No self-referrals.
We Care Dental Clinic
Made possible with the generous support of Ron Gardner, M.D., and Gardner Orthopedics, the Dental Clinic allows the Salvation Army greater opportunity to reach those who most need free dental services.
The clinic is located at 3033 Winkler Avenue in Fort Myers (33916). Before getting an appointment, those seeking dental care must first be evaluated at our 2400 Edison Avenue location. Evaluations are by appointment only. Call (239) 628-1454.
Dentists or hygienists who would like to be part of the We Care Dental Clinic should contact Health Services Director at (239)334-3745.
Primary Care services provide treatment of minor illnesses to uninsured individuals who are homeless. Services include, but are not limited to, physical exams, x-rays, medications and sub-specialty care referrals. Care is provided by licensed healthcare providers in collaboration with Family Health Centers of Southwest Florida.
Healthcare for the homeless educates and empowers patients to have an active part in their health and well-being. This initiative also reduces the need for patients seeking non-emergent medical care in the emergency room. This comprehensive healthcare approach increases the likelihood that clients will be better equipped to enter the mainstream society.
Medical Respite Services
Our Medical Respite Unit (MRU) provides shelter while a client is recovering from an acute medical condition. The Salvation Army MRU provides homeless men and women with a no-cost, safe, and healthy environment to recover and heal from acute medical illnesses. Medical care, housing, transportation and meals are provided at no charge while the client successfully recuperates and participates in his/her “Plan for Living” and progresses toward obtaining employment, income and permanent housing.
Through on-site case management, clients who participate in our services are able to access the following in-house or by referral:
- Assistance finding permanent housing
- Vocational assessment for job placement
- Employment leads
- Life skill classes (budgeting, job interview skills, etc.)
- Counseling (domestic violence, mental health, addictions, etc.)
- GED classes
To be admitted to the Medical Respite Unit, one must be homeless/indigent with acute medical issues. Primary admission preference is given to those patients referred through Lee Memorial Health System (our community partner). Patients must be alert/oriented, medically stable with the need for recuperation, not using narcotic/pain medications and must be mobile (may have use of assistant devices). All patients must have a background check for clearance prior to admission.
Questions? Contact The Salvation Army Health Services Department at (239) 334-3745.
Drug/Alcohol Rehab
Crossroads Adult Rehabilitation Center provides spiritual, social and emotional assistance for men who have lost the ability to cope with their problems and provide for themselves.
Crossroads offers residential housing, work, plus group and individual therapy in a clean, wholesome environment.
The physical and spiritual care that program participants receive prepares them to re-enter society and return to gainful employment. Many of those who have been rehabilitated are reunited with their families and resume a normal life.
Crossroads Adult Rehabilitation Center is unique in terms of length of program. The commitment at Crossroads is 26 weeks. This longer-term recovery process gives each participant a better chance at changing habits and building better lifestyles.
Each program participant is provided with a clean and healthy living environment, good food, work therapy, leisure time activities, group and individual counseling, spiritual direction, and resources to develop life skills and a personal relationship with God as provided by Jesus Christ.
How Crossroads is Funded
The work program at Crossroads supports The Salvation Army Family Stores, which fully funds Crossroads. Family Store work activities include collection and repair of donated items for the stores. Restored materials are then sold at moderate prices. Crossroads participants also help staff the stores.
Read about our Family Stores>>
For more information about Crossroads, please contact us at 239-334-3745.
Service Centers
To reach and serve as many people as possible, The Salvation Army of Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties has service centers in three outlying areas: Bonita Springs, Clewiston, and LaBelle.
Bonita Springs Mission Station
Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. – noon; 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
26820 Old US 41 (Literacy Council Gulf Coast building)
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Phone: (239) 948-5200
All services offered in English and Spanish
Food Pantry (Thursdays) – Families and individuals may come once a month for food bags (dry and canned goods) and frozen meat from Harry Chapin Food Bank and community donations. We ask each household to complete an annual intake documenting basic household information and verifying their income eligibility.
Bread and Pastries donated by Public (Tuesdays) – We are grateful to receive a large quantity of bread and sweets from Publix on Tuesdays and invite our families and individuals to come any Tuesday for these fresh items.
Diapers and Hygiene Items – We make small packs of diapers, wipes and hygiene items available as donations permit.
Emergency Financial Assistance – To qualify for help with past due rent and past due utilities, individuals must show proof of a loss of income or verifiable crisis. The client then takes part in a full assessment and plan, referrals and case management. We use private donations and administer funds from the Care to Share FPL assistance program for emergency assistance and partner with other local agencies to meet the client’s needs.
Baby Basics – We partner with Baby Basics of Collier County for distribution of diapers to families that have at least one adult working in the household and do not receive government assistance such as Food Stamps or Cash Assistance (Medicaid and WIC are ok). This is available for children 3 and under. Participating families come each month for a short educational lesson and receive a large box of diapers.
Christmas Assistance
Red Shield Academy – A long term self-sufficiency program with intensive case management for individuals ready to increase their independence and earning potential.
ACCESS – The Salvation Army is an ACCESS Florida location and has a public computer available to apply for Food Stamps, Medicaid, Cash Assistance, etc. Assistance for the application and renewal process is available in English and Spanish.
Prayer and Spiritual Care – As a church, The Salvation Army offers prayer and spiritual counsel to all clients, volunteers, donors or members of the community at large who request it. All services in our offices are offered to anyone who qualifies, regardless of their religious belief.
If you need help: Please call us at (239) 948-5200
Volunteer Opportunities – The Salvation Army in Bonita Springs would love to have you as a volunteer! Call or stop in anytime to learn about regular and seasonal opportunities. You may also send an email to sarah.clarke@uss.salvationarmy.org
Wish List – If you would like to donate items to help vulnerable families in Bonita Springs, current needs include:
- Diapers size 1-6
- Baby wipes
- Children’s clothing and shoes
- Hygiene items (shampoo and toothpaste in particular)
- Laundry pods
Click here if you would like to make a donation in support of The Salvation Army’s work in Bonita Springs and the surrounding areas.
Clewiston Service Unit
Hours: Monday – Friday, from 9:00 a.m. – noon (for walk-in emergent needs only)
969 W. Sugarland Hwy
Clewiston, FL 33440
Phone: (863) 233-6190
Fax: (863) 805-0386 fax
Emergency food pantry assistance available during normal business hours for Hendry County.
Financial assistance with rent, utilities and prescriptions (on a limited basis) There is an application process for these services.
Christmas Assistance
LaBelle Service Center
Hours: Monday – Thursday, from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
133 N. Bridge St.
LaBelle, FL 33935
Phone: (863) 674-1441
Fax: (863) 674-0867 fax
Food Distribution (There is an application process for these services.
- Mobile Pantry – 2nd Tuesday of the month, from 9-11:00 a.m. at Barron Park (Harry Chapin Food Bank Mobile Pantry truck)
- Food Pantry for Glades County residents – 2nd Wednesday of the month, from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the LaBelle office.
- Bread Day – every Wednesday from 10:00 a.m.-noon
- Emergency food pantry assistance available during normal business hours for Hendry and Glades counties at the LaBelle office location.
Financial Assistance with rent, utilities and prescriptions (on a limited basis)
There is an application process for these services.
Family Self Sufficiency Program – available on a limited basis (please call for more information) provides case management for families.
Back to School Supplies – grades K thru 8th (on a limited basis)
Thanksgiving – community is invited to a hot meal on Thanksgiving day (sit down or to go)
Christmas
- Bell ringing throughout Hendry County – contact the LaBelle Service Center to volunteer
- Christmas Cheer – toys for children in need in partnership with Toys for Tots. There is an application process for this service.
Lehigh Acres Service Center
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
25 Homestead Road, Unit 42A
Lehigh Acres, FL 33936
(239) 491-6071
Services: Florida Power & Light assistance (requirements apply), emergency food (on a limited basis), referral to other agencies, crisis management
Christmas Angel Tree
No child should miss out on the joy a gift can bring.
If you are a family in need of Christmas Assistance this year, please click here :
That’s why we need your help! Partner with The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree to bring families all over Lee County hope this Christmas season.
What is an Angel Tree?
The Angel Tree is a partnership with local businesses, clubs, churches and individuals who want to make Christmas bright for disadvantaged children. Through their generosity, thousands of children in Lee County will receive new toys, clothing and gifts for Christmas.
Once toys are collected from the different partners, Salvation Army employees and volunteers sort and distribute gifts to families that registered for Christmas assistance through a screening process. Each angel represents a real child in our community who needs our help.
Host an Angel Tree
Businesses, corporations, individuals, churches, clubs or groups – place an Angel Tree in a prominent location like a lobby. Request from us the number of Angels you want to adopt. We’ll deliver the Angel tags to you to adorn your tree!
The Angel tags have a numerical code on them with the child’s first name, age, gender, clothing sizes, one toy wish and one clothing need.
Your employees, organizational members, volunteers and/or family members choose one or more angel and shop for items described on the tag(s). The sponsoring organization collects the unwrapped gifts, makes sure the proper tag and code number are affixed to each item or bag with the gifts. You may deliver the gifts to The Salvation Army or we can schedule to pick them up.
- If you would like to participate in the Angel Tree in Collier County, call (239) 273-2001
- If you would like to participate in the Angel Tree in the Charlotte County, call (941) 629-3170 x402
To host an Angel Tree (10 or more Angels), fill out the online form (below), or call (239) 278-1551.
Adopt an Individual Angel
Stop by any of the following locations beginning November 5th to pick up angel tags and return the new, unwrapped gifts in the same fashion by December 12, 2018.
S. Fort Myers Family Thrift Store – 15418 S. Tamiami Tr. 33908
Cape Family Thrift Store – 4506 Del Prado Blvd. 33904
Pick up your Angel(s) beginning November 5, 2018
Return unwrapped gifts by Wednesday, December 12, 2018
For information, call (239) 278-1551.
Many thanks to our 2018 Angel Tree Hosts
Pioneer Printing & Signs
Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A.
Arctic Air Auto & Service
Bishop Verot High School
Blue Moon Pizza
Growing Room Bonita
Infinite Professional Center
Rasmussen College
FSW – Hendry Glades
Lee County School District
Salvation Army Thrift Store (S. Tamiami Trl.)
Salvation Army Family Thrift Store (Del Prado)
WAYS WE HELP
The Salvation Army is serving more people in the United States than ever before. We are already seeing large increases in the number of Americans seeking the basic necessities of life – food, shelter, and warmth. Approximately 30 million people received help from The Salvation Army last year.
Support for Adults
Children and Families
International
Disaster Relief
Family Thrift Stores – Two locations to serve you
NEW EXTENDED HOURS :
WEDNESDAY-THURSDAY-FRIDAY
OPEN UNTIL 7 p.m.
Drop Off Items and Shop at These Stores (store hours are Monday, Tuesday and Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
4506 Del Prado S., Cape Coral (239) 540-0265
15418 S. Tamiami Tr., Ft. Myers(239) 267-9652
Schedule a Pick-up. Call (800) SA-TRUCK or (239) 337-0955
Your donations to our Family Stores lead to sales which fully fund Crossroads, our faith-based residential substance abuse program. Help us put people on the road to recovery.
Furniture, clothing, housewares, appliances, antiques, collectibles, and more! You want it? We have it at a fantastic price. Have it but don’t need it? We’ll take it.
Need to do some household cleaning but can’t bear to throw away a favorite sweater you don’t wear anymore or a comfy recliner you no longer have room for?
We accept clean, gently used furniture, housewares, bedding, bikes, kitchen items, jewelry, clothing, electronics in working condition, tools, sporting goods, and cars, boats, motorcycles in running condition.
Drop Off Items at the Following Locations
- 10291 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers 33919
- 15418 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 33908
- 4506 Del Prado Blvd, Cape Coral 33904 (from 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
- 2581 Palm Ave, Fort Myers 33916
- 26820 Old U.S. 41, Bonita Springs 34135
Vehicle Donations
When you donate your car to The Salvation Army, you’re helping us heal broken lives and assist individuals on the road to recovery. Your used vehicle will help change the road ahead for someone who’s lost direction. Proceeds from the sale of your donated automobile are used to help fund Crossroads, our addiction recovery program.
Please call (800) SA-TRUCK (728-7825) or (239) 337-0955, and we will pick up your car, boat, truck, motorcycle or RV at no charge to you. When we pick up your vehicle, we will provide you with an IRS-approved receipt for your donation. Additional information will be mailed after your vehicle has been sold.
To volunteer at our Family Thrift Stores. Call Kris Volpone at (239) 278-1551.
Lee Hendry & Glade Counties
Fort Myers Area Command
10291 McGregor Boulevard
Fort Myers, FL 33919
Phone
(239) 278-1551
BREAKTHROUGH (movie): An exclusive interview with the makers of BREAKTHROUGH, now in theaters worldwide
Blog Post, Ministry, News, SA ConnectsSACONNECTS magazine’s exclusive interview with the makers of BREAKTHROUGH, opening today (4/17/19) in theaters worldwide BREAKTHROUGH is based on the incredible true story of one mother’s unfaltering love in the face of impossible odds. When Joyce Smith’s 14-year-old adopted son John falls through an icy Missouri lake, all hope seems lost. But as he lies lifeless, Joyce refuses to give up. Her steadfast belief inspires people around her to pray for John’s recovery—even in the face of every case history and scientific prediction.
From Producer DeVon Franklin (MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN) and executive producers, Pastor Sammy Rodriguez and Stephen “Steph” Curry, and adapted for the screen by Grant Nieporte (SEVEN POUNDS) and from Joyce Smith’s own book, BREAKTHROUGH is an enthralling reminder that faith and love can create a mountain of hope, and sometimes even a miracle.
DeVon Franklin, Pastor Jason Noble, and John Smith recently sat down with SACONNECTSto talk about the movie, their ministr..
Shelter Employee Teaches Residents the Psychology Behind Addiction
Adult Rehabilitation, Blog Post, New Frontier, News, Recovery, Social ServicesEdwyn Hector has worked for The Salvation Army for six years.
By Abagail Courtney –
In the U.S. Marine Corps, semper fidelis, or “always faithful,” signifies the dedication and loyalty that individual Marines have for each other and their country, even after leaving service. For Edwyn Hector, that couldn’t be more fitting.
Though he’s now retired from his six-year command as a Reconnaissance man, Hector’s still faithfully serving his fellow comrades. Only now, he’s doing it through his work at The Salvation Army Bell Shelter.
Shortly after leaving the Marine Corps, Hector found himself a spectator in a civilian world. What he saw were veterans, not unlike himself, wrestling with psychosis, addiction, homelessness and the unresolved traumas that stemmed from military life. Between his military experience and background in psychology, he knew he could make a lasting impact for these men and women but wasn’t sure where to start.
One evening, not long after, he saw a commercial prom..
Catherine Booth
News, SA Connects, Womens MinistryCatherine Booth (1829-1890), the Mother of The Salvation Army and wife of William Booth, talks about achieving true peace, how our hearts can be made perfect, and what a Christian can learn from one of Napoleon’s soldiers.*
None of our hearts are born perfect by nature, but they can be renewed to be made perfect. For this, first, a heart must be loyal to God. It should be thoroughly given to Him, irrespective of consequences. Second, a heart must be obedient. A perfect heart does not pick and choose which commandments to obey. Hearts that do so are partial, not perfect. Third, at the root of all perfect hearts, is trust. Look no further than Abraham to see a heart perfect in its trust. Abraham believed God almost to the blood of his son Isaac, and God showed Himself strong in his behalf.
Our charity must be divine and focused on the soul. Sentiments of pity and acts of generosity towards man is sometimes done all without a spark of divinity in one’s heart. Or worse, it may be simply ..