Over 1 Million Meals, Food Boxes Provided To NorCal, Nevada

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA — The Salvation Army's Del Oro Division, which serves Northern California and Northern Nevada, has provided more than 1 million meals and food boxes since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in March 2020, the nonprofit organization said in a news release.

"Last March, the world effectively shut down, but the nonprofit ramped up its efforts knowing the need would soon be greater than ever," said Samantha Jarosz, spokesperson for The Salvation Army's Del Oro Division.

From March 2020 to March 2021, the nonprofit provided 1,073, 096 meals and food boxes, 149,987 nights of shelter, and 112,137 hygiene and personal protective equipment (PPE) kits to thousands of families and residents in need throughout the Del Oro Division, which encompasses the North Bay, East Bay, Central Valley, North Valley/North State, the Foothills and Northern Nevada.

Rent and utility assistance and emotional and spiritual care were also provided to tens of thousands.

"The Salvation Army has historically adapted in times of difficulty to meet the needs of all people who seek assistance, and COVID-19 is no exception," said Major Ivan Wild, Salvation Army Divisional Commander. "Since the first stay-at-home orders back in March 2020, The Salvation Army has made quick and innovative changes to continue its service. We transitioned to drive-thru food distributions when the need in some communities, such as Sacramento rose 1,100 percent, provided childcare for first responders and essential workers, provided hope and spiritual care to those who felt isolated and alone, and so much more."

The Salvation Army took many services virtual to fill growing needs. Virtual summer camp was offered throughout the Del Oro Division, and in cities like Roseville and Santa Rosa, the nonprofit delivered activity kits to help keep children entertained during stay-at-home orders.

During the 2020 holiday season, the nonprofit created virtual Red Kettles as a way for donors to give online and to make up for fewer in-person kettles at stores and on street corners due to the pandemic.

"Innovations like these were crucial to both allowing The Salvation Army to continue to serve, but also to continue raising money to support its mission," Jarosz said. "Over the past 12 months, The Salvation Army has seen an incredible outpouring of support from the community and its partners, especially during Christmas season."

In a year where The Salvation Army anticipated a drop in holiday donations, The Salvation Army’s Del Oro Division saw a 33-percent increase in the number of donations and a 36-percent increase in the total funds raised compared to last year.

"I could not be more proud of our officers, staff and volunteers who give of themselves every day to ensure the needs of the community are met," Major Wild said. "The Del Oro Division also has wonderful donors who sacrificially give so that our programs can continue to serve the needed. Together we are making difference."