Salvation Army Celebrates National Salvation Army Week With Local Events

Lafayette, IN – The Salvation Army will celebrate National Salvation Army Week May 10-16.

Founded in London England, The Salvation Army came to the United States when Lieutenant Eliza Shirley left England to join her parents, who had migrated to America in search for work. In 1879, she held the first meeting of The Salvation Army in America, in Philadelphia.  On March 10, 1880, Commissioner George Scott Railton and seven other officers arrived in New York City to begin the Army’s mission there. Three years later, Railton and other Salvationists had expanded their operation into California, Connecticut, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

National Salvation Army Week was officially recognized by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1954.  President Eisenhower stated that, “Among Americans, The Salvation Army has long been a symbol of wholehearted dedication to the cause of human brotherhood. Their work has been a constant reminder to us all that each of us is a neighbor and kin to all Americans. Giving freely of themselves, the men and women of The Salvation Army have won the respect of us all.”

To find out more information about National Salvation Army Week, the special events, or how you can make a donation to the local Salvation Army, call (765)742-0006

###