Salvation Army Highlights Community Support, Programs, and Upcoming Fundraiser

The Salvation Army in Front Royal is busy this summer, from launching programs for local children to preparing for a major fundraiser. In this Town Talk, Sergeant Kim Hall and board member Glenn Wood share updates on the organization’s work, how the community can get involved, and what’s ahead.

The Salvation Army has long been a fixture in Front Royal, offering spiritual and social support through its Cloud Street church and food bank. But as Wood explained, recent changes are making a visible impact.

“We have a community family store,” he said, “and the sergeant and the major have come here to transform our store into a nice retail space.” Donations are up, and the store now features a rotating inventory that supports local programs. “The money raised by the store is then used in our community for social services,” he said, noting that sometimes even food for the food bank is purchased using store funds.

That revenue supplements the Red Kettle campaign and other efforts, including the Salvation Army’s upcoming summer banquet. The annual banquet is part celebration, part fundraiser, and part volunteer recognition. It’s also a vital source of mid-year support for the organization.

Summer Camp and Aftercare: Big Benefits for Little Cost

Sergeant Kim Hall outlined the summer camp currently underway at E. Wilson Morrison Elementary School.

“We have 60 signed up,” she said. “They paid $15 for the whole summer, and that basically covers the cost of shirts and identification for the kids.” The children receive breakfast and lunch through the school and a snack provided by the Salvation Army. Camp activities include field trips to museums and other locations both in and outside of Front Royal. “We have charter buses that will be taking them,” Hall added.

The cost to parents? “Basically, no cost,” Wood emphasized.

In the fall, the after-school program will resume at the same location. It will serve students from kindergarten through middle school and is also free to families. “They get activities where they can play kickball and basketball and work on their homework,” said Hall.

Banquet to Celebrate and Support

The upcoming banquet will take place at the First Baptist Church Social Hall on First Street and Union Avenue. In addition to recognizing community volunteers, the evening will feature a performance by the Potomac Brass Band from Washington, D.C.

Awards will be given in honor of longtime volunteers Lucy Kephart and Ann Crim, whose names are tied to the Salvation Army’s traditions of service and holiday giving.

The event will seat 120 guests. Tickets are $50 each or $500 for a table sponsor. “We still have at least 16 tickets available,” said Hall.

Vacation Raffles and a Silent Auction

Two raffles will be held in connection with the banquet. Winners will receive a one-week stay at either a Nashville timeshare or the Wilderness Lodge indoor water park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. “Both of those are great summer destinations,” Wood said.

Raffle tickets are limited to 300 for each destination and cost $25 for Nashville and $50 for Pigeon Forge. “All that money goes to our Corps, back in our community,” Wood emphasized. Tickets can be purchased online through the Salvation Army Front Royal Facebook page.

A silent auction will also be held for four tickets to a Washington Nationals vs. Philadelphia Phillies baseball game in August. “That’s about a $300 value,” Wood said.

Blood Drive and Year-Round Support

The team also reminded the community about the importance of donating blood during the summer. First Baptist Church is sponsoring a Red Cross drive on Friday, June 27, from 12:15 to 5 p.m.

“Summertime, the need for blood is even greater,” Wood said. “Just give enough of your time and your blood. No money’s involved.”

Donating Items That Matter

The Family Store continues to need summer clothing donations and accepts items from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 296 South Street. Pickup services are also available. “Fresh product comes in daily,” Hall noted. “We’re rotating clothes, we’re rotating housewares, furniture is always coming in.”

She emphasized that right now, summer clothing is the top need. “Not your winter clothes,” she said with a laugh. “Wait till the fall.”

The store also plays a role in meeting urgent local needs. As Wood recalled, one woman with six children recently bought a dining table for eight at an affordable price. “The community got income, and she got something she needed,” he said.

A Mission Rooted in Local Care

All funds raised remain in the local community, supporting programs and assistance for families in need.

Whether through child care programs, emergency assistance, or gently used clothing and furniture, the Front Royal Salvation Army continues to meet practical needs in the lives of many families—often thanks to neighbors helping neighbors.

For those interested in attending the banquet, purchasing raffle tickets, or donating items, more information is available via the Salvation Army Front Royal Facebook page or at the store on South Street.