APRIL ROUND UP

We trust our winter season is over and extend wishes for a glorious Easter Season as we celebrate again the resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ.  Our Center of Hope Shelter is running at full capacity.  Over 24 people have successfully worked through our program, found jobs, and permanent housing!  During recent snowstorm we turned our center into a temporary emergency disaster shelter.  We brought in extra cots and helped save lives.  Our four social work offices remain busy.  With rising gas and food prices, many are needing our services.  We thank each of you for your continued support as you partner with us to help change and save lives.

-Majors Ken and Connie Morris 

CENTER OF HOPE UPDATES

Our Center of Hope continues to grow, and we’re excited to share meaningful progress. In recognition of the impact we’re making, especially with families, we’ve been awarded grant funding from the New Hanover County School System. This support allows us to provide weekly tutoring for each child, helping bridge any educational gaps caused by homelessness.

Our social services team also works closely with NHCSS McKinney-Vento support specialists to remove barriers to timely school enrollment, access to resources, and consistent education. At the same time, we remain focused on helping residents secure employment and transition into permanent housing. To date, we’ve successfully placed more than 24 individuals into permanent housing, including five families. We’re also proud to share that 46 residents have graduated from Step-Up Wilmington’s Jobs Week program. Building on this momentum, we’ve partnered with the Cape Fear Workforce Development Board to develop innovative ways to connect local employers directly with our residents based on their skills and career goals. At the heart of this work is a commitment to honoring each person’s dignity walking alongside our residents as they build stability and break the cycle of homelessness.

The Center of Hope Food Services Program mission is to provide wholesome, sustainable meals to our residents and community.

Through generous donations and community partnerships with the Food Bank, Target, Fresh Market, and others we not only feed our residents but also have a Community Feed that caters to Eden Village, the Creekwood community, and others who may come to our shelter each evening from 6:00-6:30pm, 7 days per week. 

SOCIAL SERVICES UPDATES

The Salvation Army’s Social Services team has been actively supporting individuals and families facing financial hardship. Through our monthly financial literacy classes, we provide practical guidance on budgeting and money management to help clients stay current on their bills and build long-term stability. One client, a single mother of a two year old, working full-time and expecting her second child came to us during a particularly difficult time. Her pregnancy became high risk, leading to missed workdays and medical restrictions that reduced her weekly hours. As a result, her electricity was shut off. While she was able to borrow a portion of the funds, The Salvation Army stepped in to cover the remaining balance for two months, giving her the time needed to return to work and regain financial footing. Support like this not only meets immediate needs but also helps create a path toward lasting stability. It’s a reminder of how timely intervention can make a meaningful difference for families working hard to stay afloat.

---

Volunteer or Make a Donation!

We offer both short-term and long-term opportunities throughout the year—from one-time projects to ongoing service roles that create a lasting impact. Whether you’re ready to give your time or support our mission financially, every contribution helps make a difference in our community. Visit the links below to learn more and to donate!

DONATE

VOLUNTEER