Starting Over

Cathy* moved to Indiana from out of state to stay with family members.  After some time passed her family members told her she could no longer stay with them and put her out.  She was not familiar with the area and did not want to return to where she came from.  That’s when she turned to The Salvation Army for help. 

Unfortunately Cathy had a felony on her criminal history background and as a result was having a hard time finding employment.  She signed up with PACE/OAR and began working with a case manager.  After several weeks of classes and regular attendance in groups she landed an interview with a company and was hired on for full time hours.

Cathy worked for several weeks and saved up some money.  She was finally able to find safe housing within her means.  She continues to meet regularly with her case manager and she received a promotion at the beginning of the month.

*Names have been changed to protect the confidentiality of the client.

American Sewing Guild Helps Prepare for Cold Weather

During the last two weeks members of The American Sewing Guild (Indianapolis Chapter) have been sewing hats at the Indiana State Fair for The Salvation Army.  The 190 donated hats will be used for our annual Coats for Kids campaign in October. 

This year will mark the 22nd year for the event which is put on each year through a partnership with The Salvation Army, WTHR Channel 13, and Tuchman Cleaners.  Coats for Kids distributes winter coats to Central Indiana children.  This year’s distribution date has been set for October 11 in the Northwest Pavilion of the Indiana State Fairgrounds from 8:00am-4:00pm.  The event is open to the public, but the child MUST be present to receive a coat!

Overcoming Obstacles

Jane* first came to The Salvation Army Social Service Center 6 years ago after fighting a battle between addiction and sobriety for over 23 years.  Along with her addictions, Jane had been involved in numerous violent relationships and spent several nights in the hospital.  Two years ago her case manager from The Salvation Army referred her to an in-treatment drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility where she remained for several weeks.  After leaving the treatment program Jane successfully stayed sober for 2 years but unfortunately three weeks ago Jane came into shelter again after experiencing a relapse due to stress in her current relationship.  She is now attending an outpatient service program for drug and alcohol treatment, attending meetings, and is working full time.  Jane has already taken the first step to remaining safe and clean by coming into shelter.  She plans to maintain continuous contact with her case manager once she exits the facility.

*Names have been changed to protect the confidentiality of the client.