The Salvation Army by Barbara Quinn

Today I’m grateful for The Salvation Army. Most people are familiar with their kettles manned by bell-ringing Santa Clauses. (The song Silver Bells was inspired by the bell ringers outside of department stores.) It’s not Christmas for me unless I drop a few bucks into those kettles. The Salvation Army also takes donations of goods year round. Their truck came to my house yesterday and picked up three televisions, some lawn chairs, and sixteen bags of clothes and household goods. I gave them lots of old clothes, but a fair amount of the things in those bags were new. When I receive gifts I can’t use, or freebies at events, I save them to pass on to The Salvation Army. I never turn down anything that’s free. There were t-shirts and journals I’ve won, and mugs that were giveaways, hostess gifts of platters and plates, and the little toiletries from hotels that I take when I travel. It’s good to know that someone somewhere will get use of these things. When I have a dozen or more bags full, I call for the truck which comes from the Bronx. They make an appointment and show up on time. It’s a lot nicer than waiting for a repairman! And yes, you do get a tax deduction. They will mail you a letter for your records.

When I was first married I bought furniture and household goods at the Salvation Army Thrift Store. They are picky about what they take to sell, and I always knew that the things I found there would be good. I'm not a member or an adherent to their principles, but I’m grateful that I’m now in a position to give some things and cash to them. Times are tough for many. It’s good that places like the Salvation Army continue their mission to help the needy and provide disaster relief. The Salvation Army needs your help and donations, so before you re-gift something, keep them in mind. There’s someone out there who will be most grateful that you did.

PS The Beatles song Strawberry Fields was inspired by a Salvation Army children's home called Strawberry Field.