Salvation Army of Clearwater & Upper Pinellas

Introductions

Bev Fisher then introduced the speaker, Major Ted Morris, Corps Officer Pastor, Salvation Army of Clearwater & Upper Pinellas.

Ted, a Salvation Army officer, shared his background and experiences. Ted discussed the Salvation Army's mission, origins, and various programs, including the Little Red Bucket fundraiser, the family stores, and the substance abuse recovery program. He emphasized the organization's faith-based approach and commitment to helping people without discrimination.

Salvation Army's Disaster Services History

Ted discussed the history of the Salvation Army's disaster services, starting with their involvement in World War I. He shared how their donut girls served soldiers in the trenches and how their disaster services began in 1900 with a hurricane in Galveston, Texas. Ted highlighted their extensive network of food trucks and their role in serving meals during natural disasters, including Hurricane Milt, Hurricane Bill, and the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando. He also mentioned their partnerships with other organizations, such as the Baptist Church, and their global presence in 133 countries. Ted emphasized their ability to quickly respond to disasters, citing their immediate service after the tsunamis in Indonesia and India.

Salvation Army's Global Presence and Services

 Ted discussed the Salvation Army's global presence, highlighting their 1.8 million church members, 109,000 employees, and various social services, including homeless shelters, addiction recovery centers, hospitals, schools, and missing person search services. He also introduced their Clearwater facility, which includes a church, administrative offices, and a free music school for children. Additionally, he mentioned their mobile food pantries and assistance with rent and utilities. The Salvation Army also offers a two-year transitional housing program for homeless mothers and their children, intending to help them gain education and move out of poverty.

Salvation Army's Annual Thanksgiving Event

Ted discussed the Salvation Army's annual Thanksgiving event, where they distribute 13,000 frozen turkeys to families in need. He also mentioned the Gingerbread Decorating Party, which raises funds for their residential program for women and children, and the Angel Tree program, which provides toys to 3,000 children. Ted emphasized the importance of prayer and the organization's mission to fight against sin, homelessness, substance abuse, and human trafficking. Larry expressed gratitude for the time spent and encouraged further questions. He emphasized the importance of administrative costs, stating they should not exceed 12 to 15%.