The Salvation Army has been in New Mexico since the latter part of the 19th century. The group’s spiritual foundation has given them the mandate to care for the needs of humanity. As a spiritual ministry they continue to help all people regardless of race, color, creed, sex, or age.
Building a Foundation in Santa Fe
The Santa Fe chapter of the Salvation Army came to town in 1940. At their headquarters on Alameda Street the organization provides hot showers and laundry services for the homeless. They began operations in a converted garage with single-wide mobile home at 525 West Alameda Avenue. The organization has been fully operational at that address since that time. Along with the Red Cross, the Salvation Army was one of the first responders during the Cerro Grande Fire in 2000.
Caring for Children
The Salvation Army provides a back to school program that provides families in need with money and shopping assistance for children’s school clothes. Christmas toys are given to struggling families, and residents in care facilities and jails also receive gifts. Nationally, the Salvation Army provides holiday bell-ringers as a fund raising activity. For the past 47 years, the organization has used a spiritual guide. The gospel says there will always be people in need and the Salvation Army is all about serving those people.