The Salvation Army was founded in London, England in 1865.
Methodist minister William Booth left the church to preach as an independent evangelist in the slums of London's East End. He wanted to "preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
Booth organized The Salvation Army church by military rank. Missions or churches became "corps", members became "soldiers", ministers became "Officers" and Booth was its first "General".
In 1880 The Salvation Army came to New York City and in 1885 The Salvation Army began helping those in need in Richmond, Virginia.
Since then, The Army has grown and now offers numerous programs in Central Virginia including; the Adult Rehabilitation Center, The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club, Christmas Assistance programs, Centers for Worship and Service, Emergency Shelters, Family Services, Travelers Aid Services, a School of Performing Arts and Volunteer Outreach.