NEWS
The Salvation Army, 10200 Pioneer Road, Tustin, CA 92782

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Barry Frost, Communications and Public Relations Director
714.832.7100 ext.236   Barry.Frost@usw.salvationarmy.org

The Salvation Army – Focused on Doing the Most Good
for the Less Fortunate in the New Year

Orange County, CA – At the end of 2011, people in Orange County are still feeling the effects of the economic downturn that started in 2008. Although many people are struggling, low-income families and individuals are contemplating much more difficult issues like choosing between food or making utility payments. The Salvation Army is more determined than ever to help them bridge the gap between their resources and the cost of acquiring basic human needs. And they’re asking friends and neighbors for help, in the form of cash donations.

The Salvation Army foresees a critical situation in 2012. Economic factors such as layoffs and foreclosures have also adversely affected local giving, as people find themselves with less discretionary income. And the economic instability has affected not only those who are already struggling, but also those generous people who would usually feel compelled to offer their financial support.

“The majority of our local programs rely directly on our community’s support,” says Major John Van Cleef. “While it is important to be aware of shortfalls elsewhere, we cannot put the needs of our less fortunate neighbors on hold. There are those in our community who struggle with obtaining life’s basic necessities, a very common denominator in poverty. We’ve lost manufacturing jobs and many service jobs that don’t pay a living wage. Many of those who come to us are the working poor, struggling to make ends meet and provide for their children. Low-income seniors with only Social Security incomes are caught up in this struggle too.”

The Salvation Army in Orange County urges local residents to donate generously before year-end. These gifts may be tax-deductible and, more importantly, they will help those less fortunate ring in the New Year with a renewed sense of hope.

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