After a local community kitchen was a victim of theft, The Salvation Army in Grand Falls-Windsor, N.L., stepped up to offer their support.

A group of individuals broke into the church in which the Grand Falls-Windsor community kitchen runs, stealing thousands of dollars’ worth of food and some cookware.

Logistical Help

Although not part of The Salvation Army, the kitchen and the Army have a wonderful working relationship. Community and family services director Daniel Kelly is frequently in contact with the kitchen, as they donate surplus food to each other whenever they can.

As soon as staff at the Army’s Grand Falls Citadel found out about the break-in, they did not hesitate to reach out and help.

“Initially, Daniel offered to host the next meal, but a number of people came with monetary donations or food. So, instead, we helped with the logistics,” says Major Fred Pond, the pastor at Grand Falls Citadel.

Coming Together

The Salvation Army stored excess food items the community kitchen received from donations after the theft. This not only helped the kitchen keep things well refrigerated but it was also safe, away from another potential robbery.

The executive director of the community kitchen, Laurie Ballard, is grateful for the support The Salvation Army and the community have shown her. “The outreach we’ve received really warms the heart,” Laurie told local media.

Recently, these sorts of break-ins have been occurring more frequently in the Grand Falls-Windsor region. As a result, Major Fred has ensured that the security systems at the Salvation Army church and thrift store are working well.

Thanks to the support of The Salvation Army and the community, the kitchen is back up and running normally.

“Despite it all, in Newfoundland communities, whenever something happens, everybody comes together,” Major Fred says.

Juan Romero is the staff writer/news media relations specialist at The Salvation Army’s territorial headquarters in Toronto.

Photo: Daniel Kelly