Faith&Friends
SOMEONE CARES
“Don’t Worry” For those experiencing homelessness, such as Ross and Sassy, The Salvation Army offers a safe refuge. by Linda Leigh
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ow, more than ever, people are facing new financial challenges and frightening realities. The Salvation Army across Canada has seen a fivefold increase in the number of people needing support in some locations over the last year. And people listing homelessness as their reason for visits has doubled since 2019.
Temporary Refuge “I went to the front door of the Salvation Army shelter and rang the bell,” says Ross, 78. “When they answered, I wasn’t even sure what I was doing there. I had never been homeless.” Ross had lived in the same apartment for 20 years when he was invited to move in with his sister.
A Dog’s Best Friend Ross, holding his beloved dog, Sassy, was relieved that The Salvation Army was there for them
10 • MARCH 2021 I faithandfriends.ca