In times of need

It’s often said that The Salvation Army has a ministry of “presence” – of being there in times of need. For the past 18 years, a Salvation Army food van in Goulburn has been active every Friday and Saturday night, reaching out to people on the streets of the NSW Southern Tablelands city. Between 10pm and 2am, an army of Salvation Army volunteers, aided by many members of the community and other churches, not only provide food and beverages, but a listening ear, support and guidance where needed to these people. A large proportion are young people, who are often out on a Friday and Saturday night in the CBD and local parks. Many are socialising, but many are also hungry, homeless, or just need someone to talk to. The idea (of a food van) came forward at a town meeting years ago to see if The Salvation Army could help with the youth out late at night, says Goulburn Salvation Army Corps Officer Captain Tuesday McCall. The initiative has a lot of community support, including the Local Council, Rotary, Bakers Delight and other local businesses ... It’s amazing the many people you come across – all different ages and different walks of life.