The Salvation Army assists Afghan refugees in Fairfax, Va.

By: Brad Rowland

On Jan. 22, 2022, The Salvation Army of Fairfax, Va. provided food, toys for children, and personal care items to Afghan evacuees and their families. This event was part of an ongoing effort from The Salvation Army, with the organization also furnishing clothing and clothing vouchers for use at Salvation Army Family Stores across Northern Virginia.

“We've been assisting directly and indirectly since the first day of their arrival a few months ago, providing water, personal items, snacks and baby items,” said Major Donald Wilson, corps officer. “Since that time, we've been supplying food, clothing — and particularly coats and baby clothing — through the Lutheran Social Services office that has been providing the case work and processing support for each family.”

Major Srikant and Captain Indrani Bhatnagar, corps officers of The Salvation Army’s Sherman Ave. Corps in Washington, D.C., also assisted during the event. In addition to providing transportation for a local family that walked miles to receive much-needed items, Major and Captain Bhatnagar also built relationships and assisted with distribution.

The Salvation Army continues to work alongside Lutheran Social Services and the Church of Latter Day Saints in coordinating local services for Afghan evacuees according to level and priority of need.

“We have agreed to continue to work together to assist these new neighbors to adjust and acclimate to our community,” said Major Wilson. “Our prayer is that we will be faithful witnesses of Jesus and extend both a hand and hope.”