Salvation Army visits Rotary

    The Houlton Salvation Army first started in 1889. The Salvation Army is an international Church currently in 126 countries. As most people have heard, the annual “Kettle Drive” is now taking place, which for the Houlton Salvation Army brings in 15–20 percent of its annual budget. The Salvation Army is a mission-based church that preaches and practices Christ’s word to help meet peoples needs without prejudice. They assist people with food, clothing, utilities and other needs that arise.
    Major Erma Pearl sits with each individual and goes over a budget with him or her to assist as needed. They also hold the individuals accountable for their own budget. The local store has all kinds of good items to be purchased. Clothing is the top seller in Houlton, making up about 70-75 percent of all store sales.
Contributed photo/Michael Clark
GUEST SPEAKER — Captain Steve Pearl, left, was the guest speaker of the Houlton Rotary Club Dec. 3. With Pearl is Ryan Bushey, Rotary president.
    They accept any item in good condition. It is very important for people to know that what they can not sell they do have to pay to have taken away to the dump so please donate, but remember it needs to be in good condition.
    The Salvation Army is always looking for furniture and larger items. They do not have a way to pick up items, but will gladly take them if you can bring them to the store. When you give locally it stays locally other than 10 percent that is given to the main office.
    Currently the food bank is in good shape, however after the holidays are over many tend to forget that there is still a need so their shelves get low in January. So please remember them not just during the holidays, but throughout the year. Many at one time, maybe even right now, know the feeling of not being sure where the next meal is coming from or how they are going to heat their home next week.
    Those who are currently not in that position might have a little extra to give to someone. The local Salvation Army is an organization that supports those in need. The Houlton Rotary Club will be ringing the bells on Friday, Dec. 14, and Saturday, Dec. 15.