Salvation Army in Elkhart facing an uphill battle this Christmas

By Ed Ernstes (ernstes@wsbt.com)

Tools

First thing Monday morning, the Salvation Army in Elkhart started taking applications for their Christmas assistance program. It helps give families toys and groceries.

First thing Monday morning, the Salvation Army in Elkhart started taking applications for their Christmas assistance program. It helps give families toys and groceries. They expect the number of applicants this year to exceed last year’s numbers. (WSBT photo)

By Jason Overholt

Story Created: Nov 2, 2009 at 7:06 PM EST

Story Updated: Nov 2, 2009 at 7:16 PM EST

ELKHART ― These days It seems just about everyone is doing more with less, and that is especially true for the Salvation Army in Elkhart. They have already started fighting an uphill battle for the Holidays.

First thing Monday morning, the Salvation Army in Elkhart started taking applications for their Christmas assistance program. It helps give families toys and groceries.

“And we're seeing more people whose unemployment benefits are running out, so I expect the numbers to be higher than just over a thousand we did last year,” said Julie Poertner, social services director.

In fact, the Salvation Army is expecting to get 1,300 to 1,400 requests this year. That is 40 percent more than last year.

Not only are they facing the possibility of longer lines, but this year, with more people in need, they will also be operating the assistance program this time around with less financial help. Their United Way funding has been cut for 40 percent.

“That generally helps us to buy the grocery vouchers for everyone who comes in, who needs Christmas assistance,” said Poertner. “That will be a big dent in it this year.

For those filling out applications, any help for the holidays is appreciated.

“My husband being on unemployment, it’s hard right now being a family with four kids, not being able to afford to buy them anything for Christmas,” said Goshen resident Shasta Perez.

“It’s going to get me through the holidays,” said Elkhart resident Mary McCauley. “I found out I have leukemia. We've never had to do this before, and there are a lot of people out of work.”

The Salvation Army will accept applications for Christmas assistance for the next two weeks. Call the Elkhart office at (574) 970-0088 to find out what is needed.

More Good Stuff

WSBT Weather

icon
Current Temp 35.3
°
More Weather

On Demand

More On Demand

Stock Quotes

YouNews

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

Tonight On WSBTFull Schedule

7.00
Paid Programming
7.30
Jeopardy
8.00
The Mentalist
9.00
48 Hours Mystery
10.00
48 Hours Mystery
11.00
WSBT News
11.35
CSI: NY
12.35
CSI: NY
1.35
CSI: Miami

Question of The Day

Will the new health recommendations for women change your health screening habits?

E-mail your comments. We'll pick some to read during WSBT News at 5.

  • YES
  • NO
Today's Mortgage Rates