Generations of Gratitude: How The Salvation Army Has Shaped a Family’s Journey
The impact of The Salvation Army extends far beyond immediate relief. For Ella Lee Darce and her daughter Crystal Gillespie, the organization has been a pillar of support through multiple generations, providing crucial help during some of life’s most challenging moments.
In 1972, Ella Lee Darce faced a desperate situation. Her husband was stationed overseas, and she was struggling to afford a much-needed brace and shoe for her six-week-old daughter, Crystal. After being turned away by another non-profit, Darce turned to The Salvation Army in Alexandria, Louisiana.
“The people at The Salvation Army were so kind and helpful and made sure my daughter and I got everything we needed,” Darce recalled. This early act of kindness left a lasting impression, and Darce felt a deep sense of gratitude towards the organization.
The connection between Darce and The Salvation Army continued to strengthen over the decades. In 1992, Hurricane Andrew struck near Morgan City, Louisiana, bringing with it devastating winds and widespread destruction. As Darce and her family drove through miles of devastation, hope seemed fleeting. But then, they encountered a Salvation Army truck distributing food and water.
“We drove mile after mile with nothing but damage and despair to see. I prayed and prayed we could find some help and when I saw The Salvation Army truck handing out food and water I couldn’t stop crying and thanking God!” Darce remembered, tears welling in her eyes. “From that point on, I began donating to The Salvation Army whenever I could, but always at the Red Kettles.”
The legacy of support continued when Gillespie became a mother. In 2005, just four months before Hurricane Katrina ravaged Southern Louisiana, Gillespie gave birth to a premature son. Amidst the chaos and destruction of Katrina, which claimed nearly 1,833 lives and left millions homeless, Gillespie found herself in desperate need of housing and supplies for her baby.
“Just like when The Salvation Army helped my mother when I was a baby, they were the ones helping me with my baby,” Gillespie said, smiling through the memories. “My son is now 19 and we proudly tell people how The Salvation Army came through for our family.”
Darce concluded with a heartfelt statement about the organization that has been a constant in their lives. “I know when I donate to The Salvation Army it’s coming back to me because time and time again, when devastation hits, it’s The Salvation Army that comes through to help.”
The story of Ella Lee Darce and Crystal Gillespie exemplifies the enduring impact of community service and the profound difference that compassionate support can make in people’s lives. As The Salvation Army continues its mission to serve those in need, stories like these highlight the deep, personal connections that form through acts of kindness and generosity.