TEXARKANA MAGAZINE I n the spirit of compassion, The Salvation Army unfolds its mission “to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.” They are a true beacon of unwavering hope. The Salvation Army’s commitment to “soup, soap, and salvation” weaves a tale of generosity that transcends boundaries, calling us to look around at our neighbors and explore a world where giving is not just an act but a transformative force, leaving a mark on all the lives it touches. In 1852, on the bustling streets of London, William Booth, a visionary minister, turned away from the traditional pulpit and started his unconventional ministry of joining the poor, homeless, and destitute on the very streets where their hardship existed. His sermons resonated not within church walls but at the point of their need. Determined, despite skepticism from fellow ministers, Booth and his wife, Catherine, started The Christian Mission, which evolved into an army of 1,000 volunteers, turning even the most marginalized individuals into steadfast believers. Eventually rebranded The Salvation Army, Booth’s vision ignited a bold
mission is vast, and through its various programs, it touches the lives of over 7,000 men, women, and children locally each year. Captain Juan Gomez is our local chapter director, and he serves alongside his wife, Captain Clara Gomez. “The Salvation Army is well-known for its support of the at-risk, homeless and needy families, but we extend a helping hand through a multitude of other services year-round,” he said. “These programs include disaster response to assist with survivors of both natural and man-made disasters, social services, casework and spiritual counseling, youth services, Christmas programs, and our Family Shelter.”
Captain Gomez and his wife at 315 East 45th Street in Texarkana, Arkansas. At 400 East 4th Street, Texarkana, Arkansas, the social service programs provide vital support, including food, clothing, and financial assistance. Remarkably, ours is the only program in the community that includes protein (pork, chicken, and beef) in our food boxes and offers rental assistance for those at risk of homelessness. These integral casework and spiritual counseling services encompass mental health, residential aid, and spiritual counseling to provide holistic support. The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign and its friendly bell ringers have become synonymous with the Christmas season nationwide and indicate the kickoff of the holiday season around town. At community partners like Walmart, Sam’s Club, and Super 1 Foods, this campaign has become a centerpiece and staple in our area and is one of the largest fundraising events in the community. Every
They even offer a place to worship on Sunday with services led by
dollar raised through those red buckets stays in Texarkana, funding regular and seasonal programs. Last year’s goal of
offensive, converting a quarter of a million to Christianity by 1885. Today, spanning
$110,000 came up just $17,000 short, but The Salvation Army continued its 127-year tradition of serving Texarkana. This year, with the support of the community, they are even more determined to meet their goal of $120,000 and continue making a difference, but they need our support! Situated at 316
133 countries, The Salvation Army continues Booth’s legacy—offering healing and hope to those in need. In February 1896, The Salvation Army began its journey in Texarkana, Texas, at its 615 Spruce
Street location. Over the past 127 years, it has developed into a cornerstone of our community,
Hazel Street, Texarkana, Arkansas, the Center of Hope serves as the only shelter in the greater Texarkana area where families can stay together, offering 18 beds for men, 12 beds for women, and eight family rooms. The Jackson
serving the needs of countless individuals and families. The Salvation Army’s
Captains Clara and Juan Gomez photo by Matt Cornelius
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COMMUNITY & CULTURE
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