HELENA — About 40 Helena-area households got a helping hand this week, thanks to the Salvation Army and donations from the community.
The Salvation Army Helena held its annual Adopt a Family distribution Monday. Through that program, community members and businesses sponsor local families in need, providing them with gifts that range from toys for children to household items for adults.
“They provide for everyone in the family,” said corps officer Maj. Lawry Smith.
Because of COVID-19, families made appointments to pick up their gifts at a specific time. Volunteers carried them out to the curbside.
The Salvation Army has been running this program for years. This year, they expanded it to serve seniors, veterans and single adults who may be struggling during the pandemic.
“We really tried to find people that maybe otherwise would have fallen through the cracks or would not have reached out for help,” Smith said.
Smith said they are grateful for the people who make Adopt a Family possible.
“It blesses our heart,” she said. “It’s just amazing the generosity of the Helena community and how much they’re willing to give. It’s neat to see the Helena community really come together for this event.”
The Salvation Army is also continuing several of its other campaigns, including the Angel Tree and the Virtual Red Kettle. They have not had as many bell-ringers out as in previous holiday seasons, due to the pandemic.
You can find more information on the Salvation Army’s programs on their website.
