Inflation soared to historic highs this year, drastically affecting the ability of nearly 92 million Americans to afford the cost of living and basic needs such as rent, mortgage, utilities, gas and food. In addition, approximately 200 million now live paycheck-to-paycheck. And it’s a challenge that goes beyond Christmas.
The escalation of costs has increased requests for assistance by 30 percent to 50 percent in many communities compared to previous years. From Kansas City to Dallas and St. Louis, these needs are further enhanced during the holiday season as temperatures plummet and more people come seeking refuge and assistance to find shelter.
“Because of the overwhelming generosity of our loyal donors, corporate partners and over 1.3 million volunteers, The Salvation Army has been able to meet the needs of the country’s most vulnerable communities, 365 days of the year,” said Kenneth Hodder, national commander of The Salvation Army. “But with the multiple burdens that many individuals and families are feeling this year, we will rely on the steadfast support of our friends to help us give people in need a hand up.”
As concerns of rising inflation are expected to continue, the need for poverty assistance, natural-disaster relief and pandemic support grows stronger. With more than 7,200 locations across the country, The Salvation Army is positioned to meet the needs of local communities with tailored programs and services year-round. As the nation’s largest non-governmental direct provider of social services, it invites supporters to Love Beyond Christmas to ensure millions of individuals and families receive help and hope through the end of the year and onward.
The Salvation Army serves more than 25 million people annually, with 2.3 million people receiving holiday assistance alone. Across the country, the organization has provided vulnerable individuals with more than 171 million meals and provided four million people with the financial assistance they need to stay in their home.
The best way to ensure people receive the help they need is to Love Beyond Christmas by continuing to support The Salvation Army throughout the year. Donations become the resources needed to provide essential services across the country. To make a onetime or recurring donation, visit www.SalvationArmyUSA.org.
–Dwight Widaman | Metro Voice
