The Salvation Army honored with ‘Hope Marches On’ proclamations from Kentucky, Tennessee governors

By: Ayron Corbitt

Amid rising COVID-19 cases, supply and personnel shortages, and fallout from devastating tornadoes, The Salvation Army continues to respond to meet the increased needs of families. In fact, the impact of the tornadoes and the pandemic on families isn't sleeping, taking a break, or a holiday of any kind as the calendar flips to 2022, and neither is The Salvation Army.

In December, Governors Bill Lee of Tennessee and Andy Beshear of Kentucky signed proclamations declaring "Hope Marches On" month in both states. As the organization was preparing to share these declarations across both states, tornadoes and damaging storms ripped through parts and suddenly preparations, planning, and immediate response were the priority.  The Salvation Army is always ready to spring into action as resources are staged across the country ready to activate no matter the day, month, or holiday.

“The Salvation Army has remained steadfast in their commitment to Kentuckians, especially during the challenges," said Gov. Beshear.  "As we enter the Christmas holidays, I was proud to personally thank these heroes and officially proclaim December 2021 as Hope Marches on Month in honor of the organization's continued efforts to help families in every corner of the commonwealth."

Since the tornadoes hit, The Salvation Army has provided 22,659 meals, 23,927 snacks, and 13,374 drinks. Additionally, more than 2,700 people were reached for spiritual care, and 8,710 hours of service were invested. Hope will continue marching into the new year as The Salvation Army plans for long-term recovery efforts in communities impacted. The Salvation Army was one of the first to respond and is committed to long-lasting efforts to help neighbors rebuild.

Beyond the tornadoes, since the beginning of the pandemic, The Salvation Army has provided more than $81 million in utility assistance for the nearly 62.6 million Americans across the country having difficulty paying bills and more than $112 million in rent and mortgage assistance for the 7 million Americans behind on rent.

"Our goal is to meet human needs without discrimination providing meals, food, warm clothing, gifts for boys and girls, and other critical assistance for families and all who might otherwise go without this Christmas or any other day of the year,” said Major Art Penhale, Divisional Commander for The Salvation Army Kentucky-Tennessee Division.