Salvation Army Struggles With Growing Demand

The Salvation Army is struggling to feed a new population of people, including the growing number of Oklahomans who've reached the end of their savings in this tough economy.

Tuesday, March 31st 2009, 8:34 pm

By: News 9


By Melissa Maynarich, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Salvation Army is struggling to feed a new population of people, including the growing number of Oklahomans who've reached the end of their savings in this tough economy.

The organization is barely keeping up with demand, and in addition to a greater demand, the charity usually has left-over holiday donations this time of year, but says those are gone.

At the Salvation Army lately, right when the food comes in, it's being handed right back out.

"The food that you see here appears to be plentiful," said Antionette Hysmith-Sanders of the Salvation Army. "It will last us maybe about four days, and then we're down to just barely scraping the bottom of the barrel."

Regulars are now being joined by people who never thought they'd be asking for help at the pantry, including middle class Oklahoman's who've hit tough times.

"You know, it's hard living from one paycheck to the next paycheck," said Mary Long.

Long is thankful for the nutrition she's receiving.

Onita Cox feels blessed to get the help she needs too, especially now that her daughter and grandchildren are living with her while the economy slumps.

"We need it because we've just run really short this month because of the food prices being so high," Cox said.

Last year in March, the Salvation Army served 5,783 people. This year they said the number of people has doubled.

"In all the years that I've worked for the Salvation Army...I have never passed out this much food," Hysmith-Sanders said.

Salvation Army staff said they have always served the neediest.

They said they're not sure how they plan to continue through the recession, but they have faith in the community's support.

If you'd like to help the Salvation Army, call 246-1100.

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