Salvation Army safety net present in all zip codes

Submitted by Salvation Army Hudson Service Unit

Injured from a fall and unable to pay her electric bill, Helen (not her real name) found living in Hudson was not easy. A community with a reputation for being solidly middle-class or above, Hudson also has a small, invisible low-income population that is too frequently overlooked and unknown to most. Helen is a member of that community.

After her fall in January, Helen was out of work through May. As a result, both her electricity and gas were now in danger of being disconnected. The problem: several months of accrued, unpaid bills.

Referred to the Salvation Army by a local church, Helen was out of hope.

“After meeting with Helen and understanding the situation, it was apparent that long term she would be OK if we could resolve the immediate need,” said Jim Lang, a member of the Salvation Army Hudson Service Unit.

Van Carter, treasurer of the Hudson Service Unit, added that “after talking with both utilities, we were able to design a remedial action plan that resulted in payment of both utilities and implementation of a budget payment plan that made it easier for Helen going forward.”

For 140 years, the Salvation Army has been in Hudson, helping people in need without regard to any theoretical classification. In Hudson, this means helping 28 residents over the past year with their utility bills.

‘Red Kettle Day’

The mayor and Hudson City Council recently adopted a proclamation designating Dec. 8 as “Red Kettle Day” in Hudson “in recognition of and appreciation for the contributions and services made and to be made by the Salvation Army.”

“But we are more than just interim financial help,” said Jeff McCandless, the third member of the Hudson Service Unit. “We also serve as the gateway to the vast reservoir of other Salvation Army services, such as food banks, thrift stores, hot meals, support for battered and at-risk people, and programs for youth.”

“We are so proud of our Salvation Army volunteers and thankful for the help that the Army provides, and I encourage everyone to remember the Salvation Army,” said Hudson Mayor Jeffrey Anzevino.’” If you or someone you know is in need of help, call 216-554-5057. To help the Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle drive, go to registertoring.com.