Giving Thanks in Malden: Salvation Army

As Thanksgiving approaches, there are a number of ways residents in Malden can help out those in need. This week, Malden Patch looks at some of the efforts made by non-profit groups in the city. While the series focuses on just a few efforts in Malden, you can find many others on our volunteers page. And if you know of a group that needs volunteers, you can add a volunteer announcement.

of Malden/Mystic Valley Corps has been serving the community for over 100 years and, for at least 75, providing entire Thanksgiving baskets for needy families in this city, Medford and Everett.

Major Janet Clarke, pastor of the organization along with her husband, Major Fred Clarke, said the Salvation Army decided that with at Malden High School, it didn't make sense to duplicate the service.

Thanksgiving Baskets Being Made

"We distribute the Thanksgiving baskets on Nov. 23 and focus on people who have their own homes and can cook," she said. "The baskets – with turkey, stuffing and all the other classic dishes – provide needy families with an intimate feel for the holiday."

There's definitely been an increase in the numbers of families the Salvation Army helps during the holidays as well those who make use of its food pantry, said Clarke.

For years, she said, the organization was serving about 250 people. In 2008, that number rose to 300 and last year was just under 400 people.

"The rise is consistent and that certainly has to do with the economic times," she said. "What we're also seeing is that people who used to donate to our basket efforts and the food pantry now need help themselves."

So there are a lot of people who feel embarrassed now, Clarke said, because they can no longer give.

Food Pantry Needs Help

She pointed out the food pantry is in dire need year-round of canned goods and staples. Anyone can help by dropping off such items at the Salvation Army at 213 Main St. or by calling 781-324-1970.

"You can come to the facility for our Christmas drive as well and pick out an angel," Clarke said in reference to the program where people select a child to provide new toys. "And we're always looking for people to donate clothes."

The Salvation Army of Malden/Mystic Valley Corps offers a wide variety of assistance to individuals and families who qualify for need in areas such as utility assistance through the Good Neighborhood Energy Fund, food/grocery vouchers, clothing assistance, rental/mortgage assistance, counseling and referrals and case management.

When appropriate, referrals are given to other agencies that may better serve the needy with issues such as food stamps, employment resources and housing services.

Programs include Miracle Kitchen—Community Feeding Program offered every Monday at noon; the food pantry that is available for all residents of Malden, Medford and Everett, holiday assistance; senior vacations and Wonderland Camp & Conference Center where seniors can enjoy attending the Salvation Army's Conference Center and camp facilities at the Wonderland Conference and camp facilities in Sharon and numerous youth programs.

For additional information on the Salvation Army's services, call 781-324-1970.