The Men's Shelter - a lasting legacy
A detailed, well-kept Salvation Army local history book chronicles the changes that occurred over the years in Griffith and the many different events and ministries that were undertaken. A variety of towns in the Griffith region hosted Salvation Army activities over the years, including the existence of a corps (church) in Hay. Most have ceased to run but one important initiative that began in 1969 has matured and evolved into a vital ministry of the present-day Salvation Army: The Men’s Shelter. The Griffith Lions Club built the shelter for overnight accommodation for men. It was their major project for that year and cost $6000. In June 1970, the opening of the shelter was celebrated. In 2011, The Salvation Army spent $60,000 on upgrading the accommodation. Recent changes have seen the program expand to incorporate short-term crisis accommodation and longer-term transitional housing. A crisis centre manager was employed and he oversights the centre and provides case management for clients. The men’s crisis centre is a central ministry of The Salvation Army in Griffith. It provides a much-needed service but is also a visible expression of The Salvation Army’s ethos; “Heart to God hand to man.”
