Manatee County - The Salvation Army Florida

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About Us

Upcoming Events

The Salvation Army is proud to be one of three organizations benefiting from

The Rotary Club of Bradenton Presents: Joe DeVito

Visit www.bradentonrotary.org for more information.

Join Us April 1
for the 3rd Annual Kids 2 Kamp Golf Tournament
at IMG Academy Golf Course

Proceeds from this event benefit our summer day camp program. This program has been designed to have an affordable, fun and educational alternative for summer child care. For more information on the camp program, visit our Kids to Kamp page under the Summer Camp tab of our website.

To learn more about the golf tournament, click our events page, or to register online, click here. For more information, call Kelly French at 941-757-5773.

April 1, 2023, IMG Academy Golf Course, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton

Registration opens at 11:30 am

Shotgun start at 12:30 pm

Dinner and awards ceremony to follow

Serving Manatee County since 1923

The Salvation Army has been serving Manatee County since 1923. While the needs of the community have changed in the last century, our mission has not. If you were to ask about us, the answer would be we are “Doing the Most Good.” This may mean our free evening meal program, our emergency overnight shelters, our case management and social service programs or one of our Christmas assistance programs, Angel Tree or Adopt-A-Family. In addition, The Salvation Army is a church and we hold worship services every week, plus other faith-based and character building programs for adults and youths.

Our programs and services

We offer a free, community dinner each weeknight beginning at 5 pm. Anyone is welcome to attend, but we require dinner attendees to have a meal card. Cards can be picked up at 1204 14th Street West. Please call 941-748-5110 for more information.

In addition to feeding, we provide shelter. We offer shelter in the form of emergency overnight stays and associated case management programs. The Pathway of Hope (see info under the services heading) program assists motivated families seeking security and stability in their lives.

Angel Tree helps local, qualified families with Christmas presents. Each year, close to 1,800 children are registered for the Angel Tree program.

The Homeless Outreach Team (HOT) bed program was formed in fall of 2021. Working in conjunction with local law enforcement, The Salvation Army provides temporary shelter and case management services to clients identified and brought to shelter by local law enforcement. The goal is to transition these clients to housing or other suitable accommodations based on their needs.

Emergency Disaster Services

Did you know The Salvation Army is involved with natural disaster relief efforts? The Salvation Army of Manatee County sent staff and volunteers to North Carolina to help respond to clean-up and recovery efforts after Hurricane Florence in 2018, as well as to Florida's Panhandle after Hurricane Michael. Learn more about Emergency Disaster Services.

We couldn’t do it all without you!

One of the most recognized faith-based charitable organizations spanning the globe, we could not help those in need without your support. The generosity of the local community through donations, volunteer efforts and those who host our Angel Trees every year help us Do The Most Good. Click here to get involved!

Watch our video!

Local Leadership

Our Local Leadership

Trained, commissioned officers oversee the daily operations of The Salvation Army. They proclaim the gospel and serve as administrators, teachers, social workers, counselors, youth leaders, and musicians. The Salvation Army local leadership team is comprised of officers and management level staff members who oversee day-to-day activities. Officers and management work in partnership with a volunteer member Advisory Board.

Historically, officers of The Salvation Army receive appointments assigning them to a post. On average, Majors spend three to five years at an appointment. Newer officers, or Lieutenants, may spend a shorter time period at their first appointments. Staff members hired by The Salvation Army handle carry-out the services and programs, while ensuring a continuity of services. Finally, Advisory Board members volunteer their time to support the local efforts of The Salvation Army with guidance, fund raising efforts and oversight.

Majors Juan and Sobeida Guadalupe

Major Sobeida “Bivi” Guadalupe was born in Venezuela and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Universidad Teologica del Caribe in Puerto Rico and a Bachelor Degree in Business Administration-Accounting from the University of Puerto Rico prior to entering The Salvation Army College for Officers in Atlanta, Georgia. She was ordained in 2001 and began her career as an officer of The Salvation Army. She is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree at McCormick Theological Seminary, in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Major Juan Guadalupe is a native of Puerto Rico and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Universidad Teologica del Caribe in Puerto Rico, followed by his Master’s in Divinity from McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago. With his wife, Major Guadalupe entered The Salvation Army College for Officers in Atlanta and was ordained in 2001.

Together, the Guadalupes have ministered in Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Michigan prior to their time in The Salvation Army and since becoming officers, they have served in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia. They are blessed with three children and four grandchildren.

Majors Bivi and Juan Guadalupe - Manatee County

Julie Showers

With more than 22 years experience working for The Salvation Army, Julie Showers has organized and supervised feeding and shelter programs in small and large communities throughout the southern United States. Serving as the Program Director/Business Administrator for The Salvation Army, Manatee County since 2009, Ms. Showers supervises all daily operations of the community kitchen, shelters and social service programs.

Leadership - Showers

Advisory Board

Each unit of The Salvation Army has its own volunteer advisory board, which holds monthly meetings (except during the summer months) and has committees for nominating, fund raising, property, finance, etc. If you are interested in joining the advisory board, please call 941-757-5773 for more information.

Current Board Members

Officers
Chris Williams, Chair
Dann Bauer, Vice Chair
Treasurer - Open

Members
Karl Esterbrook
The Honorable Robert Farrance (retired)
Kelly Hillman
George Hoagland
Chris Howard
Cody Ibasfalean
Cynthia (Cia) McKoy
Samara Sweet
Renee Wyatt

Life Member
Bill Evers

Employment Opportunities

employment opportunities banner

The Salvation Army provides employment opportunities for qualified individuals who are seeking to Do The Most Good for their community.

What sets apart The Salvation Army from other employers is our close-knit “family” and our organizational commitment to helping those in need without discrimination. We believe you will find a career at The Salvation Army to be a rewarding experience. In addition to a friendly atmosphere, The Salvation Army offers a wide array of benefits, including insurance (health, dental, vision, life and disability), paid vacation time, sick time as well as retirement plan benefits.

To see a complete list of job postings with The Salvation Army, please click here. Hint: Type in 1204 14th Street West under location to see Bradenton openings.

For more information, please call 941-748-5110 or apply in person.

Angel Tree/Christmas Assistance

Believe in the Magic of Christmas!

Each year, The Salvation Army oversees the Angel Tree program to help local, qualified families with Christmas presents for their children up to age 12.

In 2020, we implemented an online registration for Angel Tree. Registration will open September 19, for the 2022 Angel Tree program.

The Angel Tree program for 2022 is now closed to new applicants.

Questions, please call 941-748-5110.

Pick-up Information

If you registered to receive assistance please bring your appointment letter. If you misplaced your letter please bring the following:

Photo ID
Proof of address (Lease)
Birth certificates of children registered
If another person is picking up for APPLICANT, person must have Notarized Letter from APPLICANT giving permission to pickup toys, appointment letter and their photo id. (No Exceptions!)

Pick up location: The Salvation Army Center for Worship, 5328 24^th Street East, Bradenton 34203

Community Dinner

‘Soup, Soap and Salvation’ may sound a simplistic motto, but it addresses the heart of human need and is embedded into the fabric of The Salvation Army mission.

Feeding those who would go without a hot, nutritious meal hits at the core of The Salvation Army’s mission. Each weeknight in Bradenton, we serve a hot meal to an average of 250 men, women and children at our Community Dinner. Doors open at 5 pm Monday-Friday as we welcome the community to our dining room. While the dinner is provided at no cost, we ask guests to pick up a meal card at our administrative office, located at 1204 14th Street West, between 1 pm and 4 pm.

We welcome everyone to dinner – this meal is served to anyone in need, just not exclusively the homeless. Thus, many seniors and families who live nearby attend our community dinner.

What is for dinner?
Each night, the kitchen staff at The Salvation Army prepares a hot, nutritious meal. A protein, vegetables, starch and dessert are staples on the daily menu. Lasagna, beef stew, pizza, soup & salad, Italian sausage and peppers often appear on to the menu.

Food donations
We accept food donations from several local grocery, wholesale club and convenience stores. In addition, a few restaurants donate food on a regular basis. If you would like to learn more about making a food donation, please call our kitchen manager at 941-757-5783.

Facts on Hunger
By definition, to be food insecure means that there is a lack of reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food.

Households with children are more likely to be food insecure than those without.
59% of food insecure households participate in a major food assistance program.
The National Council on Aging reports that over 4 million low income adults over the age of 60 rely on a food assistance program. On average, they receive $108/month for food.

Financial Assistance

Because Not All Things in Life Go According to Plan…

The Salvation Army’s social services department in Bradenton provides case management, emergency financial assistance and basic needs to qualified Manatee County residents experiencing a valid crisis. We understand that hard-working families often make the decision of buying medicine and groceries or paying the electric bill.

Financial assistance is available for:

• Utilities, FPL and TECO, eviction prevention and other basic needs funds are available for qualified applicants.
• Rental assistance for qualified applicants only when funding is available.
• A limited number of applications can be accepted for financial assistance. Assistance is subject to approval and is not guaranteed.

Eligibility:

• FPL, TECO and water assistance - You must have a valid crisis and past due balance or shut-off notice.
• Rental/housing assistance - You must show a valid crisis and/or a 3-day eviction notice.

Required Documents:

Please bring current photo ID for all household members 18 and over and last 4-digits of social security number for everyone in the household. Once the referral is accepted, a case manager will contact you and provide instructions on which documents are necessary, as they vary for each service. These documents are also listed in the online application.

How to begin:

Complete our online application and after reviewing your file, a case manager will contact you.

Here is a complete list of services offered by the social services department

Electric service payment assistance
Water bill assistance
Rental/Housing assistance when funds are available
Personal financial counseling
Christmas programs
Life skills education

To learn more, call 941-748-5110.

Hello

Men’s Shelter

“People who are homeless are not social inadequates. They are people without homes.” – Sheila McKechnie

Each evening, the men’s shelter opens its doors to adult males seeking shelter. The Salvation Army serving Manatee County has capacity to provide lodging for 100 men each evening. The shelter offers both emergency overnight stay and long-term case management programs to link clients to community resources and meet the goal of finding long-term, sustainable housing.

Emergency Shelter

The overnight emergency shelter begins intake daily at 6 pm. Manatee County residents receive seven free shelter nights. Once the seven nights have been used, clients will be encouraged to enter a case-managed shelter program.

Shelter Programs

Individuals seeking additional assistance may enroll in a shelter program. Each client works with a case manager to develop a case plan outlining goals and objectives. Goals and objectives contribute to the overall goal of finding sustainable housing. For example, clients participate in life skills classes on budgeting and personal finance. Links to other community resources such as medical and dental care or legal aid are also provided. Our four separate programs serve different demographic groups.

Turning Points Work Program – This program requires participants obtain employment and save money before seeking sustainable housing.
Veteran’s Program – Offered in conjunction with the Veteran’s Administration, provides emergency housing for veterans for 30 days until a long-term solution is found.
Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) – Allows men waiting for a bed at the ARC to stay in shelter. Once transferred to the ARC, men receive six months of substance abuse counseling.

For more information on the men’s shelter, please call 941-748-5110 and ask for extension 112.

Women & Children’s Shelter

Homelessness is not exclusive to adults, children can be homeless too

When you imagine someone as homeless, you probably do not think of women with children. However, the number of homeless women with children continues to grow in this area.

Each evening, the shelter for women and children opens its doors to both single women and women who have come seeking shelter for themselves and their children. The Salvation Army serving Manatee County designates five rooms to women and their children; a sixth room serves only women. When these spaces are occupied, common areas provide emergency overnight shelter.

The shelter for women and children offers both emergency overnight stay and long-term case management programs to link clients to community resources and meet the goal of finding long-term, sustainable housing.

Emergency Shelter

The overnight emergency shelter begins intake daily at 6 pm. Manatee County residents receive seven free shelter nights. Once the seven nights have been used, a fee of $10 per night is charged.

Shelter Programs

Individuals seeking additional assistance may enroll in a shelter program. Each client works with a case manager to develop a case plan outlining goals and objectives. Goals and objectives contribute to the overall goal of finding sustainable housing. For example, clients participate in life skills classes on budgeting, personal finance, parenting, etc. Links to other community resources such as child care, medical and dental care or legal aid are also provided.

Restrictions

Individuals under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a female parent or guardian.

For more information on the shelter, please call 941-748-5110 and ask for extension 128.

Pathway of Hope

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”

Harriet Tubman

The statistics are startling:

43.1 million Americans live in poverty - that equals one in every six
15 million children live in poverty
11 million spend 1/2 of their income on rent
6 in 10 do not have enough money saved to cover a $500 emergency expense.

In Manatee County

Approximately 46,374 (11.5%) of the population are living in poverty
Approximately 84,683 (21%) of the population are children under the age of 18 living in poverty
Most of those living in poverty spend ½ of their income on rent
The majority of those living in poverty do not have enough money saved to cover a $400 emergency expense.

Breaking the Cycle of Poverty in Manatee County

The Pathway of Hope initiative provides services to local families who need assistance on their path to self-sufficiency. These families desire to take action to break the cycle of poverty that repeats generation after generation. This begins in the initial case management meeting. The client and case manager discuss the client’s goals, strengths, and barriers; then together, build a case plan that will lead the client to success. The Salvation Army case manager links the individual with community resources to help meet the goals on the case plan, such as stabilized housing, legal assistance, subsidized childcare, or educational/job training services, among others. Future meetings track progress and help the client navigate any obstacles that may arise.

The Pathway of Hope Mission

Pathway of Hope addresses the root causes of poverty. By helping families overcome challenges like unemployment, unstable housing, and lack of education, we can lead families down a path towards increased stability and, ultimately self-sufficiency.

If you would like to apply to participate in the Pathway of Hope program, please click here to get started.

Volunteer

“What is the essence of life? To serve others and to do good.”

-Aristotle

The Salvation Army in Bradenton has both seasonal and year-round opportunities for volunteerism that allow you as an individual, your family or a group to “Do the Most Good.” While some may look for a face-to-face interaction with those we serve, others may prefer to be more “behind the scenes” in their volunteer efforts. Fortunately, we can accommodate both.

Year-round

Emergency Disaster Services
Community dinner
Youth enrichment for children at family shelter
Youth programs (temporarily suspended due to COVID)

Seasonally

Angel Tree toy shop sorting and distribution (Ages 15+ Please; December)
Click here to sign up for toy sorting
Click here to sign up for distribution day
Ring bells at our red kettles (Any age as long as children are accompanied by an adult; November and December)

Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) team

This often means serving meals or passing out bottled water to first responders and disaster victims. EDS team volunteers can elect to receive short assignments, such as two hours in your community or a longer assignment that could require travel to another state for up to two weeks. Please visit our EDS website for more information on the EDS volunteer program, including training requirements.

Special Projects

At times, we do have special projects that require the assistance of a volunteer. If you are already on our volunteer roster, you may be called to see if you are available to help.

Other ways to help:

We receive calls from groups who would like to do a service project on our behalf. We welcome these calls and accommodate when possible.
Sponsor a drive to support basic shelter needs.
During the holiday season, host an Angel Tree at your business, club or church.

For more information on our volunteer opportunities or to complete an application, please call 941-757-5770 or click here for an application packet. Email your completed application to Carolyn Nielsen.

The fine print: In most cases, volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. Minors may volunteer when accompanied by a parent in some holiday positions. All new volunteers are expected to complete an application and meet with the volunteer coordinator for a one-on-one tour of our campus.

Host an Angel Tree

Thank you for your interest in Angel Tree

Angel Tree is a unique program designed by The Salvation Army to help struggling families fill the Christmas wishes of their children. Each year, Manatee County children are enrolled in the program and gifts for these children are provided by compassionate generous donors. In 2021, 773 families (nearly 1,800 children) received Christmas gifts thanks to this program. Angel Tree registration is now open. Once registration is complete (early October), Angels will be assigned and trees/tags will be delivered.

For more information, please contact Julia Showers at 941-748-5110 or via email.

Host an Angel Tree or Toy Drive Donate

Frequently Asked Questions

How it works

An Angel tag is created for each child and "Angels" are placed on trees. Angel Trees go on display at partner host sites in mid-late October. Friends and patrons of the host site pull Angel tags from the tree. The tag includes a child's first name and Christmas wishes. Purchased gifts are returned to the tree and picked up by The Salvation Army in November. Families of the Angels receive the items the week before Christmas.

Who do I contact to host an Angel Tree at my business/club/church/office?
To get started, please click here. You may also contact Julia Showers via email, Julia.Showers@uss.salvationarmy.org.

What do Angel Tree hosts have to do?
The Salvation Army delivers the tree and Angel tags to your location. Each tag represents a child and includes the child's first name, age, gender and two or three items on their wish list. Once your tree arrives, inform your friends, patrons, club members or employees that they may select an Angel. The Salvation Army collects all of the trees and presents.

How many Angel tags will be on my Angel Tree?
You may chose the number of Angels based on how many you believe your team can support.

What should donors purchase for their Angel?
Each Angel tag includes a short wish list to use as a guide. However, the buyer decides what to purchase. We request new, unused items. The goal is to provided each child with a minimum of two or three toys, clothing and either shoes or a jacket. Angel tags are not duplicated and only one per child is sent to the community. Gifts received for the child through the Angel Tree program may be the only gift they receive this Christmas.

Is there anything that donors should avoid?
Yes, we prefer non-violent gifts – no weapons. We also ask donors to refrain from purchasing bikes and gift cards.

Should donated gifts be wrapped?
No. While we are very grateful for all of the gifts donated, we also respect that many parents enjoy wrapping gifts for their children.

What is a Forgotten Angel?
With so many families facing economic challenges, more and more families register their children. Despite our best efforts and the generosity of our community supporters, we average 400 Angels not selected from an Angel Tree. Gifts donated for a Forgotten Angel stock our toy shop and fill the wishes of these children.

How can I support the Forgotten Angels?
Instead of hosting an Angel Tree, your group can collect gifts for the Forgotten Angels Toy Shop. Gifts may include toddler toys to older child games. We need for both genders and in different age ranges.

Can I make a monetary donation to the program?
Yes! You can send donations to our office or donate online. Donations can be mailed to Angel Tree, The Salvation Army 1204 14th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34205 or click Make a donation .

How can I volunteer in the Angel Tree Toy Shop?
Contact our volunteer coordinator, Carolyn Neilson at 941-757-5770.

Any other questions, please email Julia.Showers@uss.salvationarmy.org

Important Angel Tree Dates

November 17-December 3, 2022 – Gifts can be returned to the "Toy Shop" at 5328 24th Street East, Bradenton, 34203
November 28, 2022– We begin collecting tree and gifts from host sites

Adopt An Angel

Make Christmas Special for a Local Child!

Adoption for families and angels for the 2022 Angel Tree Program is now open!

Our goal is to provide at least the following to each child.

2 Outfits
Shoes or Jacket
1 ‘Larger’ Gift
2-3 Smaller Toys/Gifts

Once an “Angel” is adopted, no one else in the community can adopt the same child. People often partner with friends or family to fulfil their Angel’s Christmas wishes. Any item you buy for your Angel will be given to that child.

The Wish List provided for your Angel is a guide. Parents complete wish lists when registering their children to assist you with the Angel’s wants and needs. These are just suggestions and not all items have to be purchased.

If clothing sizes are provided, this reflects a family’s need.

Gifts should be new and unwrapped.

Please write the ‘Angel ID Code’ of the Angel you choose online attach it to the bag of gifts or place it inside. We want to be sure all items get to your ’Angel.’

Host An Angel Tree or Toy Drive

Adopt an Angel

Adopt-A-Family

Help Make Someone’s Christmas Memorable

Exciting News!

Like so many other things in our daily life, COVID 19 impacted how we operate our Angel Tree and Adopt-A-Family programs. The 2020 program registration was conducted online and was done in the same manner in 2021. The software does not allow us to indicate if a family is Angel Tree or Adopt-A-Family. This does not impact you, our loyal donors. If you would like to adopt a family or multiple families, we will be able to meet your needs. Angel Tree donors will see an expanded ability to select angels online this year.

Make a donation

Adopt a Family

Holiday Bell Ringing

Be Part of the Legacy

The Red Kettle Campaign has a deep history in America. It began in 1891 in San Francisco when Salvation Army Captain Joseph McFee wanted to provide a free Christmas dinner to families in need. He used an idea originally developed in Liverpool, England where people could throw some change into a pot to help the poor. Six years later, it spread to the East Coast and continued to grow into the tradition it is today, spreading throughout the entire United States and across the world.

Kettle Facts

Funds collected in the kettles support programs and services offered locally by The Salvation Army.
The holiday kettle campaign is The Salvation Army’s largest fundraising campaign – and its worldwide!
Apple Pay and Google Pay donation options were introduced in 2019.

About our bell ringers

Bell ringers could be paid or volunteers who chose to donate time to The Salvation Army.
Ringing bells as a family can become a fun, holiday tradition.
Many civic, school and church groups have holiday bell ringing days.

Who can be a bell ringer?
In short answer, anyone can be a bell ringer!

We encourage groups, families and individuals to participate in holiday bell ringing.
People of all ages can ring bells, but we ask that student groups and children have adult supervision.
Anyone with a few spare hours and the desire to spread the holiday spirit is welcome.

FAQ

What is the time commitment? It varies. Some groups ring daily, others just once during a holiday season. We ask you to commit to a minimum of 1/2 day. We ring from 10 am until 7 pm.
Is there an expense for me? No! We supply the kettle, kettle stand, an apron and the bells.
How long is the bell ringing season? This year, we will ring Monday through Saturday from November 28 until December 24.
Can I pick my location? We have a list of approved sites and you can select your location from the list.

Fun Ideas

Sing Christmas carols while you, your friends or family gather around the kettle.
Develop a challenge among your friends, colleagues or even rivals to see who can raise more funds. (Think Team A vs. Team B)
Dress up! Some of our volunteers wear fun holiday clothing!

For more information, please call 941-748-5110 and ask to speak with the Volunteer Coordinator. Click here for a volunteer application. Completed applications can be emailed to Carolyn Nielsen.

Donate

It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.

Mother Theresa

The services and programs provided by The Salvation Army are funded by the generosity of our donors. While we receive some grant funding, the bulk of our revenue stems from local support.

Here are some facts about donations to The Salvation Army:

When you donate online or through one of our mail campaigns, that donation stays in your community.
By dropping a dollar in one of our Red Kettles at holiday time, that dollar helps your community.
If you donate clothing or household goods for our resale shops, funds raised through the sales of these items support our substance abuse rehabilitation programs.
When you leave money to The Salvation Army through your estate, that aids the long term sustainability of The Salvation Army.
By participating in either Angel Tree or Adopt-A-Family programs, you support local families through a Salvation Army program.
Your donations “Do The Most Good” for those in need. Your support may become a free dinner, a night in our shelter or a case management program to help clients gain independence and sustainability.

Join the Bed and Bread Club

What is the Bed and Bread Club? It way for donors to make monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annual donations to support the shelter and feeding programs at The Salvation Army. To get more information or set up your club membership, call 941-757-5773 or click below to set up your membership online.

In addition to the Bed & Bread Club, please use the links below to make a one-time donation now, learn about donating clothing, toys and household items, or to include The Salvation Army in your estate planning.

The Salvation Army is a 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt organization and gifts are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.

Bed and Bread

Join the Bed & Bread Club

Donate Now

Donations help us meet the basic needs of food and shelter. We provide a FREE community dinner 365 nights each year – for some, this is the only nutritious meal they have each day. We also operate an emergency shelter, which is open 365 nights/year. Your donation helps us Do the Most Good.

Cash donations are accepted at our office, located at 1204 14th Street West in Bradenton. In addition, we have holiday kettles and bell ringers at all Manatee County Publix and Walmart stores, as well as several other retail establishments, in November and December.

You may mail a check to: The Salvation Army, 1204 14th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34205

Donate online by clicking here.

Join our Bed & Bread Club to make automatic monthly, quarterly or annual contributions to The Salvation Army. For more information on the Bed & Bread Club, contact Kelly French at 941-757-5773 or kelly.french@uss.salvationarmy.org. You can also click here to join the Bed & Bread Club.

The Salvation Army is a 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt organization and gifts are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.

Donate Goods

Cleaning out your closets? Moving? Handling a loved one’s estate? Maybe, your children are outgrowing their clothing, shoes or toys. Not sure what to do with all these items?

For those things that have lost their usefulness in your home, but are still in good and usable condition, you can donate goods to The Salvation Army. We have two ways of using these items. First, you can designate that they be used by clients we serve in our shelters. We advise calling first to make sure it is something we can accept. For example, right now, we need bath towels and wash cloths for our Women and Children’s Shelter.

Second, your donated goods can be sent to one of our Salvation Army Family Stores. Funds raised at our resale stores support the Adult Rehabilitation Center. You can drop off small items at our administrative office during business hours. You can also schedule a pickup for larger items, such as furniture, by clicking here or calling 1-800-SA-Truck.

Fine print: Currently, the closest Salvation Army Family Store is located at 2280 17th Street in Sarasota.

Angel Tree

Every day, hard working families in our community struggle to make ends meet. With rents/mortgages, car payments, medical bills, rising grocery costs, child care and educational expenses, families have to stretch every penny. Then, along come the holidays and it is time to buy presents. For these families with children ages 14 and younger, the Angel Tree and Adopt-A-Family programs can aid with that burden. The Salvation Army, through these two programs, connects donors who want to help to families who need it. Consider adopting a child (children) this holiday season.

Help Sustain

A planned gift, through your will, estate, life insurance or annuity will help The Salvation Army sustain and serve future generations.

The Salvation Army relies on the generosity of donations and foundation grants to meet the basic needs of our programs and services. Often, how a gift is made can have dramatic impact on helping meet a donor’s long and short-term objectives.

Thanks to our government’s ongoing encouragement of the private support of charities, most gifts to a qualified charitable organization come with tax benefits. However, in many situations it is possible to receive more than just a charitable income tax deduction.

Certain types of donations allow donors to bypass capital gains taxes on appreciated assets, significantly reduce estate taxes and establish a new source of income for yourself and your family.

The professionals in our Office of Planned Giving help you match your gift with your objectives. They provide with no obligation, confidential information that will ensure that your gift – whether cash, insurance, stock, property or a gift in trust – is timed to meet your objectives and deliver maximum value.

Your support is greatly appreciated and we are available to provide you with information and assistance in this important matter. If you need wording to include The Salvation Army in your estate plans, creating a life income for you and your loved ones, or in updating or creating your estate plans, please do not hesitate to contact Mark Romano toll free at 800-758-2769.

Worship

“My son, give me your heart and let your eyes delight in my ways,”

Proverbs 23:26

About Us

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Our churches, known as corps, are made up of congregations of soldiers (church members). Worship services meet regularly on Sunday mornings and host other activities throughout the week.

Considered a protestant denomination of the Christian Church, Salvation Army beliefs align with the mainstream of Christian beliefs. Salvation Army Officers are ordained ministers who provide ministerial duties for their congregations and perform marriages and dedicate children.

We welcome you to visit our church.

Worship Times

Sunday
Worship –10:45 AM

Bible Study & Prayer
Tuesday – 10 AM

Youth Programs
Wednesday – 5:30 PM

Women’s Ministry
Thursday – 9:45 AM

Location

The Salvation Army Center for Worship in Manatee County is located at 5328 24th Street East, Bradenton, Florida, 34203. The church sits at the corner of 24th Street East and 53rd Avenue East (State Route 70), just west of U.S. Hwy 301.

For more information on worship services and ministry programs, please call 941-748-5110.

Youth

"Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it."

Proverbs 22:6

The Youth Development programs offered by The Salvation Army blend a message of love and faith, while building character and instilling self-confidence.

Open to kids between the ages of 4 and 18, The Salvation Army offers youth programs on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 pm until 7:30 pm. Together, the kids enjoy a nutritious meal and then break into smaller groups based by age.

Each group provides kids with a warm, encouraging and spiritual environment where they are engaged in fun activities and crafts that tie in to a lesson. In addition to the weekly Tuesday night program, The Salvation Army also offers a summer camp opportunities and Vacation Bible School.

For more information about the Youth Programs offered at The Salvation Army, please call 941-748-5110.

Kids 2 Kamp

Kids 2 Kamp Summer Day Camp

Registration is now open for the 2022 Kids 2 Kamp Summer Day Camp Program. Click here to register your child(ren). Kids 2 Kamp is at capacity. Any new applicants will be placed on a waitlist!

Kids 2 Kamp Includes:

Arts & Crafts
Character Building Exercises
Recreational Activities – Outdoor Games
Field trips/Special Guests
Reading
Vacation Bible School

Details:

Camp will run Monday – Friday from June 6 until July 29, 7:30 am-5:30 pm

Children will need to bring a bag lunch, snacks will be provided.

All children will participate in reading and music programs.

Registration fee – $25 per family

Weekly tuition – $55/week/child

For more information, please call 941-748-5110.

Special Thanks Those Who Have Supported This Program

Bradenton Kiwanis Foundation

Bradenton Rotary Foundation

Green Family Foundation

W. Paul Hoenle Foundation, Inc.

Manatee County School District

The Patterson Foundation

All of the Golfers, Sponsors and Donors who participated in the Kids 2 Kamp Golf Tournament, March 26, 2022

Summer Music Camp

Tune up your summer with a new Kids Summer Music Camp

Starting in June 2022, The Salvation Army will expand its summer camp program to include a special music camp! This camp runs from June 13 until July 29 (8 am – noon, Monday-Friday). Kids between the ages of 8 and 12 are welcome and will learn brass, percussion, strings or woodwinds.

Three sessions each day allow students select between the following:

1 – Brass instruments or Woodwinds

2 – Drumline or Violin

3 – Guitar or Choir

Fees

A $25 registration fee will be assessed to each child who enters the program.

The weekly fee is $75 per student.

Dates

The camp runs June 13-July 29. There will be no camp on Monday, June 20 or the week of July 4-8.

Application

To apply, click here.

Questions?

Call 941-748-5110.

Young at Heart program image

“Count your age by friends, not years. Count your life by smiles, not tears.” – John Lennon

Young at Heart is a program for independent, active 55+ members of the community where they can have fun, fellowship and build new friendships while learning about local resources and activities.

Join us each Wednesday for our weekly activities, which can include "Lunch and Learn" sessions with a guest speaker, Bingo, trivia or game days, "field trips" to different locations, arts and crafts, or special seasonal activities. Young at Heart meets each Wednesday from 10:30 am - 12 pm. Times may vary in the event of off-site activities.

Upcoming Schedule:

February 1 - Learn about nutrition
February 8 - Valentine's Day Party (games & crafts)
February 15 - Line Dancing with Jean
February 22 - Karaoke with Micah and Shoshanna
March 1 - Gardening with Master Gardener Michael Sircy
March 8 - Field Trip to the Central Library (includes journal class)
March 15 - No Young at Heart this Week!
March 22 - Crafting with Librarians
March 29 - Exercise with Lee
April 5 - Easter Celebration (crafts & cards)
April 12 - Gardening with Master Gardener Michael Sircy
April 19 - Line Dancing with Jean
April 26 - Lunch & Learn - Life with Pets/Executive Director of the Manatee County Humane Society, Rick Yocum
May 3 - BINGO with Micah
May 10 - Exercise with Lee
May 17 - Line Dancing
May 24 - Karaoke with Micah and Shoshanna
May 31 - Crafting with Librarians

Lunch is always provided

Location: 5328 24th Street East, Bradenton, FL 34203
For more information, call 941-748-5110.

Kids-2-Kamp Golf Tournament

Fore! Calling All Golfers!

Join us April 1, 2023 at IMG Academy Golf Club for the 3rd Annual Kids-2-Kamp Golf Tournament. Registration is now open for this scramble event with a 12:30 pm shotgun start. After an afternoon of golf, enjoy a relaxing dinner in the IMG Academy Club house, followed by our award ceremony. Prize drawings will also be available!

Funds from the event will be used to maintain low costs for the families who send their children to camp and full scholarships for the families with the greatest need! You can make a register or gift online by clicking the link below, calling 941-757-5775 or sending it to 1204 14th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34205. Questions? Contact Kelly French at 941-757-5773 or via email at kelly.french@uss.salvationarmy.org.kelly.french@uss.salvationarmy.org.

Register for this event online by clicking here.

About Kids-2-Kamp

In 2020, The Salvation Army of Manatee County opened a summer day camp for Manatee County children. The goal was to begin just after Memorial Day and the close of the 2019-20 school year and end just before school resumes. We planned to have capacity for 50 children. Then came COVID.....

After thoughtful considering, we went ahead and held a four-week camp. In 2021, the camp returned for a full eight weeks and still restricted the number of campers due to COVID concerns. We look forward to the 2022 camp, which will be eight weeks. A donation of $400 would sponsor a child for camp all summer.

Evening of Hope

What if your daughter and her children had no place to sleep other than their car? Would you worry about their safety? How your grandchildren would be fresh and ready for school each day? If they were making it to school? Where are they getting their meals?

For too many women and families in this community, homelessness is a great risk...one rental increase, one unexpected medical or car repair bill, a reduction in hours at work....Hard-working families who live paycheck to paycheck are finding it more challenging to make ends meet, especially with the raise in rental rates, gas prices and food costs they face each month.

The Salvation Army provides a safe place to help women and families through this difficult time, with the goal of preparing them to return to sustainable housing after a few short months.

That is why we celebrated and supported our shelter spaces for women and children at An Evening of Hope, January 14, 2023 at the IMG Academy Golf Course Clubhouse.

Events

"Where there is friendship, there is fellowship."

Lailah Gifty Akita

Current Weekly Events/Center for Worship - 5328 24th Street E.

Sunday Worship - 10:45 am
Tuesday Bible Study - 10 am
Tuesday Youth Programs – from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm - dinner served
Wednesday - Young at Heart Program - 10:30 am to 12:00 pm - lunch served
Wednesday Band Practice - 5:30 pm
Thursday Women's Ministry - 10 am

Current Weekly Events/Administrative & Social Services Center - 1204 14th Street W.

Still pending.... – Pathway of Hope Life Skills Center

Upcoming Events

An Evening of Hope - October 1, 2022
3rd Annual Kids 2 Kamp Golf Tournament - April 1, 2023

Past Events

2nd Annual Kids 2 Kamp Golf Tournament - March 26, 2022
1st Annual Kids 2 Kamp Golf Tournament - April 10, 2021

Thank you to all of our sponsors, golfers and volunteers who made this event a success. Proceeds from this golf event support the Kids 2 Kamp summer day camp program.