Thursday, September 26, 2024
On a scorching Monday in early August, where temperatures soar past 100 degrees, Annette Cole finds herself busy at the Salvation Army office in Gatesville.
The local unit has partnered with The Senior Citizen Center, utilizing Camilla’s room for their operations on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. The partnership provides a crucial service to the community, helping those in need without incurring rental costs, ensuring more funds are available for aid.
Annette Cole, a retired CPA who still works part-time in her field, volunteers her time every Monday, while Billy Byrom takes over on Wednesdays. These dedicated volunteers manage the distribution of assistance funds, adhering to strict protocols to maintain the integrity and fairness of the organization. As part of this process, applicants must present a photo ID and, typically, a utility bill. The Salvation Army provides aid in the form of vouchers, which can be redeemed at HEB, a partner in this effort, ensuring funds are electronically transferred to the rightful recipients.
The assistance provided is generally limited to one emergency relief per year per applicant. This protocol ensures that the help is available for as many residents as possible. Pam Rudolph, the director of the Senior Center, also volunteers her time, helping set up appointments for those seeking assistance.
Annette’s expertise in finance is vital in managing the monthly budget, which primarily depends on contributions collected during the Bell Ringer Season. Though there are some generous benefactors, the need for additional funding remains constant, especially as most requests pertain to utility bill payments. The elderly, living on fixed incomes, often find themselves struggling to make ends meet due to rising costs of essentials. The Salvation Army steps in to bridge these financial gaps, but when the need exceeds the resources available, applicants are referred to other local organizations, including churches like CCC and the Methodist Church Ministerial Alliance, which play a significant role in providing further support.
In addition to financial aid, Annette offers a listening ear and spiritual support, often praying with those who are open to it. She also leads a financial literacy class, "Money Management 101, A Guide to Financial Basics," on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 2-3 p.m. at Righteous Roots, providing practical advice to help community members manage their finances better.
The community's interconnectedness is evident in the collaboration among various organizations. The Care Center, for instance, focuses on providing food, allowing the Salvation Army to allocate its resources to other needs. Bell Ringers, with their iconic Red Kettles, play a crucial role in raising funds, every penny of which stays within the community.
This summer the parent Texas Salvation Army funded camp fees for 16 youth to attend Camp Hoblitzelle in Midlothian. The local Salvation Army Unit partnered with the Boys and Girls Club, with Julie Hudson and Nimchie Alce facilitating the registration and transportation of the campers, but was not responsible for funding.
The Gatesville community exemplifies the phrase "It takes a village." Despite economic challenges, the community consistently rallies to support its members. The local Salvation Army unit, in collaboration with other organizations, continues to be a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of community support and generosity.
Last year, the community rose to the challenge of filling Bell Ringer spots, which are now available. You can “Register to Ring” from Nov. 29 to Dec. 23, Monday through Saturday, from 12-2 p.m., 2-4 p.m., and 4-6 p.m. Sign up at: https://signup.com/go/XrtXriz
