Ways We Help

The Salvation Army of Fort Smith's Social Services Center aids primarily with utility bills, case management, and emergency bus tokens. Food assistance is also provided through the emergency food pantry. Between the utility, food, and bus token programs, we are meeting a specific, at-risk population of elderly clients in the River Valley. Most who visit The Salvation Army of Fort Smith fall well under the National Poverty Guidelines and suffer from food insecurity and chronic poverty. 

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The Salvation Army of Fort Smith operates a family shelter located at 504 North D Street. The shelter currently houses at-risk families, particularly single men or women with children. The shelter operates 365 days a year and also functions as a family warming center in the winter and a cooling station during the summer. 

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The Red Shield Diner provides a community dinner for needy and homeless clients Monday - Sunday at 6:00pm. Approximately, 3,000 meals are served monthly. The Red Shield Diner functions as a homeless prevention program. While many who frequent the diner are homeless, many utilize the free meals to offset expenses like a costly vehicle repair or high prescription costs. The Red Shield Diner is one the most visible community programs as it seeks to utilize volunteers of various ages and backgrounds to prepare, cook, and serve meals at 301 N. 6th Street.

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The Salvation Army is prepared to respond to local disasters such as a tornado or flood with a mobile feeding canteen. The Salvation Army’s primary responsibilities in disaster is that of mass feeding and spiritual care. The emergency disaster program also certifies individuals in ServSafe, Introduction To Disaster, and Incident Command Systems at no cost to the volunteer.

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The Salvation Army continues to provide youth development programs that encourage community service, spiritual development, and character development. Currently, twenty-five youth are enrolled in character building programs and meet weekly each Wednesday evening beginning at 4:30pm.

Lastly, The Salvation Army provides the seasonal Angel Tree program to families in need of Christmas gifts. The program is a supplementary program that is designed to provide much needed items to children 0-11. Items include winter clothing, school supplies, emergency food, and even children's furniture. 

*All families that receive assistance from the Salvation Army of Fort Smith reside in Sebastian, Crawford, Scott, Logan, Franklin, and Sequoyah counties.