Salvation Army makes mission of senior aid

Members visit the elderly and offer a hand with food over Christmas.
By NANCY TULLIS
VINDICATOR SALEM BUREAU
SALEM -- Ever since the Salvation Army of Salem opened in 1885, its volunteers have been serving the area's elder population.
The Friendly Visitor Program and other services to the elderly may be among the lesser-known aspects of the local Salvation Army's mission. In fact, Capt. Tom Hinzman, corps commander, said many senior citizens don't know they are eligible for assistance.
Through the Friendly Visitor Program, Salvation Army personnel and volunteers visit elderly residents in nursing centers, senior housing complexes and private homes.
Where volunteers go
Hinzman said there are eight nursing centers in Salem and one in Damascus that volunteers visit on a regular basis.
"Many people are not comfortable in those settings, but my view is that one day I could be in a nursing home, and I would hope that people will be willing to visit me."
Hinzman said volunteers visit nursing centers, senior housing units and private homes where seniors may be confined because of health problems.
"It's about spending time with them, giving them a friendly face," he said. "For some who don't have friends or family, it is very lonely."
At Christmas and Easter, volunteers take gifts to all the residents. At Christmas, they may even be coaxed into singing Christmas carols as they make their rounds.
Meeting other needs
Hinzman said many senior citizens are unaware that they may be eligible for the Salvation Army's food basket distribution at Christmas.
Any senior citizen on a fixed income may apply.
"Many don't even think to ask, but it helps them through the holidays," he said.
Hinzman said Salvation Army volunteers rely on others to make them aware of seniors' needs. For homebound seniors living alone, utility-company employees and postal workers are their best advocates, he said.
They are at the home regularly, and in the case of postal workers, nearly every day, so they can immediately spot signs of trouble, such as mail or newspapers piling up on the front porch.
The Salvation Army is always looking for people in need and volunteers to help them, Hinzman said.
The Salvation Army at 1249 N. Ellsworth Ave. is one of 21 agencies that receive funding from the local United Way. The United Way's goal for 2003 is $270,000 to dole out among social service agencies in Columbiana, East Palestine, Hanoverton, Leetonia, Lisbon, New Waterford, Rogers, Salem, Salineville, Summitville and Washingtonville, and in Butler, Center, Elkrun, Fairfield, Franklin, Hanover, Knox, Middleton, Perry, Salem, Unity and West townships.