The Salvation Army of Johnson City announces adjustments in services

The Salvation Army of Johnson City has announced adjustments to its services following a comprehensive assessment of local operations, including current services provided, budget, staffing, and ongoing and planned projects. Having served the Johnson City community for 114 years, The Salvation Army remains committed to assist those in need. To continue delivering essential support effectively, some changes in the organization’s services are necessary.

The Salvation Army has ended its Day Center service, which offered drop-in services to unhoused neighbors. This decision was made due to safety, staffing and funding concerns. Additionally, the free dinner service and snack bags currently offered to the community will conclude on Wednesday, July 17. However, those staying in the shelter will continue to receive three meals and a snack daily. In addition, case management services for families with children and rent and utility support are available for the general public.

Major Maureen Diffley, Corps Officer in Johnson City, emphasized, “We are focusing our efforts to ensure consistent, strong delivery of services to our guests at the Center of Hope shelter programs and to our neighbors in need through homelessness prevention efforts. These  include our rent and utility support programs, as well as family case management. We are intensifying our efforts to ensure that our services facilitate the efforts of individuals and families to meet their current needs and change their future trajectories.”

This adjustment will allow The Salvation Army to refocus on their sheltering program, which includes emergency shelter, veteran-specific shelter, and long-term transitional sheltering. The shelter currently accommodates 55 beds (44 men and 21 women), with an expansion by 25 beds during White Flag conditions (when temperatures drop below 35 degrees). A new veteran’s wing, featuring 15 private rooms for homeless military veterans, is also in progress. The current Center of Hope already offers case management services for military veterans in need.

Jeff Keller, Salvation Army Advisory Board Chair, stated, “The need for adjustment at this time is crucial to improving the sheltering services we provide. This refocus will enhance our ability to serve the most vulnerable in our community effectively.”

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