Monday marked the start of Salvation Army Week, with mayors in the cities of two local chapters formally declaring their participation. KSMU’s Scott Harvey has more.
http://ozarkspub.vo.llnwd.net/o37/KSMU/audio/mp3/springfield-branson-declare-salvation-army-week_60036.mp3
“Oh gosh, we’ve come… a long ways,” says Coffey.
Troy Coffey and his wife Pam were in dire straits. Six months ago, neither of them were working, their insurance had run out, and Pam was in poor health. Rendered homeless, they sought the services of the Salvation Army. Before a Springfield audience Monday, the couple shared their experiences of how they got back on their feet.
“Once we got in we felt like we were, we were safe. They provided us with opportunities that we never would have been able to experience without their help. For that we’re really grateful,” Coffey said.
By participating in the organization’s Family Enrichment Center Program, a transitional housing service, the Coffey’s have been able to break the cycle of homelessness and regain stability. They’re now both employed, and on Wednesday will move into a permanent residence; a place they’ll be able to call home for the first time in over a year.
“It’s just been an effort from everyone in the community pulling together. And that really shows that Springfield is a strong community, and we’re really proud to live here.”
“They respond because they have the means to respond. They respond because so easily it could be them,” Grainger said.
Major Norman Grainger is the Ozark Area Coordinator. He also credited the assistance of citizens to those in need.
“They respond because they know them as family. They respond because they know people as neighbors. They respond here in the city of Springfield because they care.”
But as Troy Coffey points out, it takes a big commitment from those who are struggling as well, noting that the biggest hurdles are pride and selfishness.
“If you can get rid of your pride and ask for help, and think about helping others instead of so concerned about yourself, than that opens a lot of doors,” Coffey said.
Salvation Army Week was also formally declared Monday in Branson.