The year 2020 was a historically challenging and, for many people, devastating period where families and households coped with the loss of jobs, income, in some instances their homes, and in the worst cases the lives of loved ones. But together – as communities, as a Commonwealth and as a nation – we did not lose hope.
The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division is grateful for the support, compassion, volunteerism and financial assistance that the Lynn community and Item Santa contributors helped provide to those most in need during the past year.
Raising funds through The Salvation Army’s traditional “Red Kettle” campaign was especially difficult, and in some areas impossible, during the 2020 holiday season.
But people in this and other communities responded to our Rescue Christmas initiative, as we found creative alternatives for raising funds between Thanksgiving and Christmas Day that will support our programming during the entire year.
People responded. Across Massachusetts, we were able to serve more than 14.5 million meals to our neighbors in need, provide shelter, utility, and other emergency assistance to individuals and families, and make sure that thousands of children had a real Christmas with gifts, decorations and a traditional holiday meal.
Statewide, The Salvation Army saw requests for assistance increase by more than 150 percent this year and thanks to support from our communities…we have been able to meet those needs.
But the great need is with us all year round. And so we ask that you keep those in mind who may still need help as we begin 2021 with renewed hope and optimism. Whether you need support or want support, The Salvation Army is still here serving. Thank you.
Major Marcus Jugenheimer
General Secretary, The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division
