First Posted: 3/4/2012
The Salvation Army remained resilient during the flood of September 2011 and, although the West Pittston branch at 214 Luzerne Ave. was hit heavily by floodwater and debris last September, the organization remained as strong as any army would.
Major Cheryl Hershey, administrator and pastor at the Salvation Army, explained that the organization tried to work through the flooding as much as possible. The building, but not the branch, temporarily shut its doors.
The doors have since reopened, and although flood damages were devastating, they offered an opportunity to have many improvements made inside the building.
The eight feet of water that made its way into the Salvation Army building last September destroyed nearly everything in the basement, including thousands of dollars of food and toys, much of which was to be donated during this past Christmas season.
Program space was lost, forcing Hershey to hold services outdoors under tents, and eventually in a temporary building provided by Michael Insalaco, Salvation Army Advisory Board chair. Some church programs were stopped all together until after the new year due to lack of program space. In order to reopen the building, improvements needed to be made.
“The building was behind the times,” Hershey explained. “It is now up to code and I am very happy with the work done.”
A new electrical system was installed and the kitchen was remodeled. There is a new food pantry, complete with extra closet space and shelving units. New carpets were installed in the chapel and the size of the stage was reduced in order to enhance the overall appearance of the room, leaving space for the possibility of additional seating in the future.
With the improvements, Hershey hopes the Salvation Army will be able to provide more to the community.
“We are very grateful for the people in the community who helped us during our difficult time,” she said. “It was amazing to see people who were flooded themselves support us and volunteer their time and, for that, I am very appreciative.”
The Salvation Army is always looking for food, clothing, and monetary donations to aid the community. To help, call 655-5947.
