Key West Florida Salvation Army social services.
The Salvation Army in Key West Florida operates a number of Social Services. They are often paid for using using proceeds from the sale of goods from their own Family/Thrift store. Based on funding, applicant need, and other factors there may be free food from a pantry, hot meals, substance abuse recovery services, and even financial assistance for electric bills or rent.
The administrative office is in the city of Key West, but the programs extend across Monroe County. Residents of all backgrounds can get help, including senior citizens, immigrants, Spanish speakers and others. While the faith based charity does offer a church service, there are no religious requirements.
There are a number of local families that approach the Key West Salvation Army for financial help. The cost of living, in particular housing (rent and mortgages) continues to escalate in south Florida. This can lead to a family, not matter their income, the possibility to struggle if they have one missed paycheck, or unexpected bills such as a car repair.
The Monroe County Florida Salvation Army may be able to offer funds for rent if a tenant has an eviction notice. Senior citizens, the disabled, or families with children may be given money for electric bills if they are faced with a shut off. Other uses of funds may be for medications, gasoline for a job interview/doctor appointment, or other critical bills.
Almost every single program available in the greater Key West area is the result of the sale of items at the thrift store. This can often be referred to as a Family store. The phone number for the location is 305-294-6505. The location may sell some or all of the following gently used items.
- Clothing.
- Furniture such as beds, mattresses, couches, kitchen tables or chairs and more.
- Small kitchen appliances.
- Vintage items, especially for teenagers or children.
- Toys for birthdays or Christmas.
- Work suits, uniforms, dresses, slacks, and more.
The thrift store will sell many other items as well, and the inventory always changes. It can vary from even Monday to Friday of the same week. Not only will the stuff for sale change, but in some cases the Key West Salvation Army has free vouchers for people in a crisis. This means if a Monroe County resident has a fire, floor, or even is recovering from a hurricane, if they have no means to replenish on their own then the store can be used to obtain free items.
Natural disaster support is one additional resource available. Monroe County and the entire Keys can be hit by a hurricane, or there could be other disasters. If/when this happens the Key West Salvation Army center will partner with other agencies on disaster relief. They work with the American Red Cross, the state of Florida and national government, as well as other groups.
What they may respond with in a disaster includes water, meals, mobile canteens and field kitchens, tents, as well as emergency lodging. There are both volunteers and full time personnel that may respond. In addition, the Salvation Army offices in other nearby states may also send resources to Key West. Those staff could come from Georgia, the Carolina, and states such as Alabama and others.
Many other social services may be available from the Salvation Army in the Keys. They arrange for free Back-to-School supply drives for students, Emergency Food Assistance, and household goods to help a family rebuild. They are also a key partner in Christmas gift/meal programs, including Angel Tree as well as Toys for Tots. A food bank is on site, and of course this national charity works with individuals battling alcohol or substance issues. They can often direct clients to a nearby center for relief.
When they can't assist on their own, then referrals are given to other community resources, including for medical needs or utility bill assistance. The main offices are at 1920-1924 Flagler Ave. in Key West Florida. 33040 is the zip code. The phone number is 305.294.6505 or 305-294-5611.
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