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by Sue Schumann Warner
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Luke 2:8-12 (NIV)
Santa Fe Springs honors grads
The Salvation Army’s transitional living center (TLC) in Santa Fe Springs, Calif., recently held its Second Annual Alumna Dinner, attended by nearly 100 program graduates and residents, community leaders, advisory council and staff. Also present were Divisional Leaders Majors Paul and Carol Seiler and Divisional Secretary for Program Major Steve Smith. Major Carol Seiler shared some thoughtful and inspirational words with TLC alumna members. The TLC provides comprehensive residential services to homeless women and their children, most of whom are victims of domestic violence and substance abuse.
Cascade’s Operation Santa Claus
Portland radio station KPAM is once again teaming up with The Salvation Army to assist military personnel through fundraising efforts of Operation Santa Claus. Families suffering a hardship due to deployment receive help with utilities, rent, and other financial needs. One couple, on the verge of eviction with just 72-hours notice—and the husband serving in Iraq—was able to maintain their housing. Last year, $164,000 was raised.
Santa Clara: a caring community
The Santa Clara, Calif., corps, under the leadership of Majors Doug and Sheryl Tollerud, enjoyed a busy Thanksgiving day at the 4th Street facility. The community dinner began with over 150 seniors seated at 11:00 a.m. Then the doors were opened to the general public to share in the 95 turkeys that were cooked, complete with all the trimmings. Later, from 2:00-5:00 p.m. the homeless and others in need were served at the Hospitality House. In all, approximately 800 people enjoyed a holiday meal.
San Diego makes it special
Learning to enjoy the holidays while clean and sober is a wondrous new experience for most of the people in the San Diego ARC program. Beneficiaries can shop for gifts for their children, thanks to a special fund created for that purpose, and they all enjoy a Deck the Halls Christmas Card Party. There are theater outings—to Christian Community Theater’s spectacular annual Traditions of Christmas and performances of the Nutcracker; a highlight of the center’s holiday season is the annual New Year’s Eve Talent Show, put on by the beneficiaries.
Falcons throw Christmas party
For the last few years, the coaches and players for the Air Force Academy Falcon football team has thrown a very merry Christmas party with The Salvation Army, inviting youth from the Army’s New Hope Center (homeless shelter), Red Shield Community Center, and the FreshStart transitional living program to attend. Each child is matched with a player who has brought them a gift, and all enjoy the fun.