Food, Fellowship and a Purpose: Salvation Army Dinner to Support Local Families

The Salvation Army of Front Royal is inviting the community to gather for its Annual Dinner on Friday, April 24, at 6 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of First Baptist Church — and this year’s event includes the chance to win one of two Tennessee vacation packages.

The annual dinner brings together residents, business owners, and community leaders for an evening of food and fellowship, all in support of the Salvation Army’s work in Warren County. Proceeds from ticket sales, sponsorships, and raffles help fund programs that assist local families with food, rent, utilities, and other urgent needs.

While many people know the Salvation Army for its red kettles during the Christmas season, donations typically slow down during the summer months. Organizers say the annual dinner helps bridge that funding gap so services can continue year-round.

“This dinner is about neighbors helping neighbors,” said Glenn Wood, a member of the Salvation Army’s local advisory board. “Every dollar raised stays right here in Front Royal and Warren County. When someone buys a ticket or sponsors a table, they’re helping a family they may pass in the grocery store.”

Two Tennessee getaways will be raffled during the event, both donated by Ken Thurman. Tickets for the Great Smoky Mountains package are $50 each, while Nashville vacation raffle tickets are $25 each. Winners do not need to be present to win.

The Nashville Vacation includes a five-night stay at Club Wyndham Nashville, located at 2415 McGavock Pike, just one mile from the Grand Ole Opry. The resort offers a two-bedroom, two-bath unit with a balcony or patio, jetted tub, and full amenities. Guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub, a fitness center, a basketball court, picnic areas, and concierge services. The stay features flexible dates, pending availability.

The Great Smoky Mountains package includes a five-night stay at Club Wyndham Great Smokies Lodge in Sevierville, Tennessee. The resort, located at 1425 Old Knoxville Highway, offers a two-bedroom, two-bath unit with a balcony or patio, jetted tub, and washer and dryer. Guests can enjoy an on-site water park with slides and a lazy river, miniature golf, laser tag, duckpin bowling, a ropes course, and more. The resort is minutes from Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Dollywood, with access to hiking, horseback riding, and golf. Dates are flexible pending availability.

In addition to raffle participation, sponsorship opportunities are available at several levels.

The $1,000 Dinner Sponsor level includes a reserved table for eight, logo placement on printed materials, social media recognition, acknowledgment in media releases, and space for a banner or display at the event.

Table Sponsors at $500 receive a reserved table for eight, social media recognition, and acknowledgment in promotional materials. Appetizer Sponsors at $300 receive four event tickets, signage at the event, and recognition from the host. Drink Sponsors at $100 receive one ticket and event recognition.

Individual tickets for the dinner are $50.

“Sponsorships are vital because they allow more of the proceeds to go directly toward meeting needs,” Wood said. “The funds raised help with rent, utilities, food assistance, and emergency support. We see firsthand how much that matters to families who are struggling.”

The April 24 dinner begins at 6 p.m. at First Baptist Church’s Fellowship Hall in Front Royal. Wood said he hopes the evening will serve not only as a fundraiser, but as a reminder of the shared responsibility to care for others.

“At the end of the day, this is about service and compassion,” Wood said. “It’s about coming together as a community and making sure no one faces hardship alone.”

Click here for more information and purchase tickets.