Released 25 December 2008
Thanks to the generous turkey, ham, and pie donations of McLennan County
residents and over 100 volunteers, hundreds of needy, elderly and lonely will
have a very Merry Christmas Day.
This coming Thursday, on Christmas Day, from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm, The
Salvation Army of Waco will open their doors at 1225. S. Jack Kultgen
Expressway and serve a sumptuous holiday feast, at no cost to anyone in the
community.
"There's definitely more children, young families and big groups," Captain
Russell Czajkowski, Commanding Officer said. "The demographics have
changed, we've seen more working, single parent families needing more help this
year because of the struggling economy, including more single fathers."
The Christmas Meal symbolizes the end of The Salvation Army Christmas
Assistance Program. Volunteers and Bell Ringers have been working diligently
since mid-November to ensure all The Salvation Army's needs are met. The Red
Kettle Campaign ends December 24th, but will continue to support
Social Services all year round. Some of the Social Services include a
food panty, feeding program, utility assistance, rent assistance,
prescription assistance, clothing, and emergency shelter for those in need in
our community.
"100% of the money we raise here in McLennan County stays here in McLennan
to help our friends and neighbors in need," Czajkowski said. "The money we
collect not only provides Christmas assistance to those in need, but it helps
support our programs all year round. It could help kids with school supplies in
August or even send elderly to camp in the summer."
Some of The Salvation Army's year round programs include a soup kitchen
located at 4th and Webster, where 3 meals a day are served, 365 days
a year to anyone in the community. William and Catherine Booth
Apartments, a 196 unit facility offered to the elderly and disabled at a lower
price. A brand new Family Store located in the Parkdale Shopping Center,
next to Hobby Lobby, where household items and quality used clothing are
offered at a discounted price.