In times of need

It’s often said that The Salvation Army has a ministry of “presence” – of  being there in times of need.

The Taree history book records visits by the local officers to people in the community who were sick or in need. One War Cry report in 1891 from the local officers states: I had a nice tramp of about two miles to see a sick brother, and coming back, if the rain did not pour down it was a caution; but the blessing was inside, and could not be washed out. Hallelujah!

In Coopernook, with houses mainly on the river or creeks, the officers’ visitation was in the form a a row-boat, rowed slowly past as friendly greetings were called into each establishment.

During The Depression of the 1930s, Taree Salvation Army opened a soup kitchen under the auspices of the Salvation Army Free Food Depot. A report in the Manning River Times in August 1931 states that it has now been in operation for one month and 1,600 meals have been served out. The needy people of Taree deeply appreciate this work and the little children demonstrate their appreciation by grateful thanks for what is being done. Many friends have been kind in sending vegetables, and sometimes fruit, which is thoroughly enjoyed by the children. The soup kitchen closed a few months later but the Taree Salvation Army continued to assist those in need during the 30s with many clothing and blanket appeals.

Today, The Salvation Army in Taree offers low cost clothing and household goods at its Family Store and welfare assistance can be obtained by calling Salvos Connect (1300 371 288) where an assessment and referral process will connect people with their closest centre.