The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented economic, health and social challenges for the entire world, and many things remain uncertain. While our borders may be closed, we are still under the same sky, serving the same God. This, we know, is certain. We are one Army with one mission, and we will overcome this together.

Twelve years ago, Jay Barnard checked into The Salvation Army’s addiction recovery program at the Booth Centre in Ottawa. Today, he's a Red Seal chef with a successful business, giving back to the Army in a time of great need during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Salvation Army’s Centre of Hope in Edmonton is continuing to put its best foot forward during COVID-19.

When licensed child care centres closed as the result of the pandemic, The Salvation Army’s child care programs ceased. In partnership with The Region of Peel, Linda Gilbert, director of child care services, and her team are providing a safe and caring environment for the COVID-19 front-line workers’ children.

“We are so grateful that we can share the love of Jesus Christ with those who are looking for hope in the midst of this chaos,” says Lieutenant Lynnette Trottier, corps officer and community ministries officer. “It is our privilege to walk alongside people and pray with them, so they know that there is someone who cares on the other end of phone.”

The Salvation Army's response is culturally appropriate and carefully designed to meet the specific needs of communities in these days of great need, in coordination with relevant governments, local authorities and other agencies, to ensure that nobody is missed.

The Salvation Army’s International Emergency Services team at International Headquarters – as well as the International Health and Mission Support teams – have been working determinedly to support hundreds of relief projects in communities right around the world.

Restricted by COVID-19 physical distancing guidelines, The Salvation Army’s Golden West Centennial Lodge in Winnipeg is running a visitation program whimsically titled “Through the Looking Glass,” where residents can meet with their loved ones through a window.

Last year, The Salvation Army in Fredericton launched Operation Senior Food Box Delivery, a program to bring groceries to seniors and help combat their loneliness with a visit. Now, their services are crucial to helping those impacted by COVID-19.

The emergency vehicle from The Salvation Army’s Haven of Hope is now providing lunches at three different schools in Regina, every day.