The local corps of the Salvation Army is continuing its work running a food bank with the arrival of Michael Bates and his wife, Jennifer. The couple has served together as majors in the Salvation Army for the past 26 years. Arriving in Wrangell in March, the two were previously stationed in Kodiak for three years, and have served elsewhere in Alaska, Wyoming, California and Utah.
While the Salvation Army thrift store closed last year, the local organization has maintained its other outreach services, such as the food bank.
“The food bank is an emergency type of social service to people,” Michael Bates explained. The aid is meant to assist those experiencing a crisis, be it a death in the family, overextended finances, job loss, or ill health. Sometimes help goes to itinerant cannery workers who may be between paychecks and in need of a healthy meal.
“It really can come from a lot of sources,” said Bates. “There are all kinds of situations.”
Currently the program delivers to shut-ins as well, and for the month of July provided service to around 22 local families. Bates said he and his wife would like to increase services to meet the needs of the community.
For various reasons, he noted sometimes people who could use the assistance are unwilling to ask for it, which is why residents are invited to nominate friends, family and neighbors they think may need the extra hand.
“We’re here for them,” said Bates. “I don’t think anybody should go hungry in life. That’s the whole objective of the food bank.”
Those interesting in helping can also contribute to the cache by donating food or resources. The bank is built on community member contributions, including faith-based organizations like the Wrangell Ministerial Association and local store Bobs’ IGA.
Reliance on the bank is not meant to be long-term, as its resources are limited. But for a family in the midst of a crisis, the Salvation Army’s pantry is open. The church’s location is at 611 Zimovia Highway, with the food bank’s operating hours on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For those unable to make those hours or suddenly finding their cupboards bare, Bates said they can call 874-3753 and set up an appointment.
“If something comes up, we’ve got our number here,” he said.
After the summer winds down, the local corps will start preparing for its Christmas drives in mid-September as well, partnering with WMA to provide holiday meals to local families.
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