The Greene County Salvation Army welcomes its new director, Bonnie Davis, as they plan for the 2021 winter season. Bonnie, a native Greene County resident, worked with the county a few months back, with community development and elections. She is a married mother of three and applied for the director position hoping for an opportunity to give back to the community she has long been a part of.
“It’s my home,” Bonnie says. “It’s family, friends, people I’ve never met in my life, but I can relate to [them]. Something I’ve always wanted to do was help, and this is my way … ‘doing the most good’ wherever we can.”
Bonnie stresses the impact that the Salvation Army has on communities, which helps inspire her motivation to serve. She refers to the tiny corner the building is located on and how it is “hidden away” on Blackberry Alley and W 1st St. on the edge of South Fork Tenmile Creek. The social services and community programs that the Salvation Army provides, according to Bonnie, are incredibly helpful.
“I’ve been in situations where I’ve needed help, and [it] was there for me over 20 years ago. I’ve prayed on it, and I want to give back. I really do, and I love it.”
Among these community services, the Salvation Army will be having an angel tree, where you can “adopt a child” by taking a tag off of the angel tree and giving a gift. Anybody interested can contact the Salvation Army to have a tree set up at their own workplace. Bonnie encourages anybody to participate in the angel tree charity this year. Individuals, businesses, organizations, and more are able to participate and have an angel tree of their own in accordance with the Salvation Army.
Kettle season is coming up soon as Christmas slowly approaches. The Salvation Army is always in need of bell ringers, Bonnie says. The iconic Salvation Army kettle is a true sign that the season of giving is here. Bonnie emphasizes the need for volunteers at the Salvation Army with this season of giving just around the corner.
Other services that the Salvation Army provides include emergency food boxes, the “Birthday Club” for children up to age 12 to pick out a gift, “Mommy” or “Daddy” gift baskets with infant care supplies, Dollar Energy Fund assistance with mortgage/rent and utility costs and of course the warehouse which is open for people to take around 10-20 items per week.
“We’re here, and we are doing the best we can to help,” Bonnie exclaimed. “Reach out to us!”
Anybody in need of help or assistance can contact the Salvation Army by either calling them at (724) 852-1479, emailing bonniej.davis@use.salvationarmy.org, or reaching out on Facebook Messenger. Visit facebook.com/greenesalvationarmy to stay up to date with future events or volunteer opportunities. There is a constant need for volunteers, and the mission of the Salvation Army stays alive if people are there to help.
