Service Programs

Daily Emergency Assistance is at the very core of the services that the Salvation Army has been providing since its conception in 1865. Here's what it means in Centre County, PA. Families and individuals are provided with basic human services in crisis situations, such as housing and utility payments, lodging, occasional prescriptions, and emergency vouchers for food and gasoline. Each request is considered on a first come and individual needs basis. An interview is conducted and includes a detailed assessment, budget analysis, and then, client help recommendations. The clients are helped by referring to appropriate utility programs, and often, in collaboration with other non-profit benevolent organizations and churches. This is the heart of what we do everyday for those in need in Centre County.

In 2008, we were able to help 967 Households, meeting 4,211 crisis needs. 2009 numbers are coming soon!

This annual program takes place in August. All of the children of pre-qualified families receive new backpacks, new clothing and new school supplies. This one day event begins with an early morning shopping trip for the children and their parents. Later that day, we are thrilled to be able to host a free picnic for the families to enjoy while waiting to receive their backpack and school supplies. The picnic is highlighted by games, food and entertainment, all of which is dependent on a small army of dedicated volunteers and generous donations.

In 2009, the Back-To-School program helped 189 families, provided clothing and backpacks to 412 children, all while serving more than 625 meals. It took over 100 volunteers to make last year's event a huge success!

Each holiday season hundreds of children and their families enjoy a wonderful Christmas because many local businesses, clubs, and churches host Angel Trees. These host organizations display a special tree decorated with angel tags, containing a local child’s first name and specific wish list. Local individuals from the community adopt a child’s tag, purchase the gifts, and then donate it to us. Next, with the help of many volunteers, we sort and distribute the donated gifts to hundreds of children. Each child receives eight to twelve toys and articles of clothing.

All families served also receive a grocery voucher for a bountiful Christmas meal when participating in our Angel Tree Program.

In 2009, we were proud to serve 460 children through the Angel Tree Program.

When disaster strikes, the Salvation Army provides emergency support to first responders in Centre County. We train local volunteers throughout the year through instructional workshops, drills, and community exercises. These specialized volunteers assist Emergency Management Services, such as fire rescue, police, and other 911 responders, providing food, drinks and emotional support from a mobile feeding unit, or canteen. The Salvation Army in Centre County is privileged to operate its own canteen.

In 2009, the Salvation Army of Centre of County served upwards of 1000 meals and snacks while participating in drills and actual weather disasters and emergency response events.

The Salvation Army of Centre County is affiliated with Ladore Camp & Conference Center - lodging and grounds owned and operated by the Eastern Division of the Salvation Army. Ladore offers more than 1,400 acres of pristine woodlands, trails and a 265-acre lake, located within the Moosic Mountain Range near Scranton, PA. Each year we are pleased to send groups and individuals to a variety of camps and retreats. Both young and old enjoy the programs offered at Ladore throughout the year. One yearly favorite is the kids’ music camp that takes place each July.

In 2009, we were thrilled to send nearly 50 children and adults to relax and enjoy a personal time of growth at Ladore.

In recent years the Salvation Army of Centre County has collaborated with local churches to sponsor an annual Thanksgiving Eve dinner free to the community. The dinner provides a delicious meal and fellowship to all in need, including seniors, international community members and anyone else in need of a traditional family atmosphere during this wonderful time of year.

In 2008, we were blessed to have served nearly 900 meals to those in Centre County.

In light of the International Salvation Army’s mission, Harvestview Christian Fellowship is our local commitment to emotional and spiritual care. Each Sunday and mid-week the local Corps of the Salvation Army provides programs to enrich the lives of youth, singles, young adults, and families of the community. All are welcome to participate. Programs include inspirational worship, Bible studies, children’s activities, support counseling, fellowship meals, as well as group outings and conferences.