Salvation Army Commander and Ensemble at Rotary Club of ClearwaterMajor Dean Hinson, Commander of the Clearwater Salvation Army and member of the Rotary Club of Clearwater, described recently at a meeting of the Rotary Club, what the Salvation Army does with the money contributed each year via the Bell Ringers for the Salvation Army. Rotary members were impressed with the extensive community support provided by the Army. Some local programs are: Food Pantry, Alcoholic Rehabilitation, Children in Foster care, Families–in-Transition Living, Thrift Store to support local rehab center, Human Trafficking Shelter, Support for Rent/Utilities needs, Corrections Program for help in transition from jail\prison. In 2008 the local Salvation Army distributed 2,900 turkeys, 4,800 children to be provided Christmas toys, 1300 senior citizen Gift Cards distributed, 3,720 gifts for nursing home residents with a Christmas visit, and 2,147 families registered for Christmas assistance. In the Tampa Bay area, nearly 10,000 families will be aided over the Christmas holidays, including 18,600 children. Everyone is especially aware of the Salvation Army’s rapid response to disasters throughout our country and the world. The Salvation Army first started in 1865 in London. It is now in 117 countries with over one million soldiers helping the Army to provide for human needs. The Army Ensemble played several Christmas numbers at the Rotary meeting. The Army musicians are well known for their extensive entertainment in nursing homes, and hospitals. Church services are held each Sunday at the Army headquarters at 1625 Belcher Road. The public is invited. The Clearwater Rotary Club meets each Wednesday noon at the Belleair Country Club. The club provides annual financial contributions to community charities. Individuals interested in serving their community are invited to participate.
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