Salvation Army in need of volunteers to meet the needs in Pottsville

The Salvation Army of Pottsville could use more help to continue to feed the hungry and serve the needs of the community.

On Friday, about 20 Realtors from Berkshire Hathaway HomeSale Realty, of Schuylkill Haven, were busy preparing food and doing other needed tasks in the Salvation Army's kitchen at 400 Sanderson St.

"We see the need," said Mike Wozniski, manager of the realty company.

Realtors from the group said they realized the Salvation Army provides a valuable community service and wanted to assist. Friday was the first time they did so as a group.

Susan Gormley, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway, said she previously volunteered with her church and knew the Salvation Army officials would appreciate the help.

Through their generosity, about 60 people enjoyed a lunch at the Body and Soul Cafe, which is where anyone from the community can have lunch on Fridays.

The Body and Soul Cafe is housed in the gymnasium, and it's something the Salvation Army has been doing since 2017.

While volunteers with the Salvation Army usually prepare the lunches on Friday, there are only a few who cook, so if a cook can't make it, that's a hardship, said Capt. Betty Barrett, who along with her husband, Capt. Derek Barrett, are in charge of the site.

There are about 10 people who volunteer with the Salvation for a variety of reasons, Capt. Derek said. Still, they are in need of a maintenance person and more cooks.

Starting about 8:30 a.m. on Nov. 15, the volunteers prepared meatballs, garlic bread, green beans, salad and other ingredients for a delicious free meal.

Mike Wozniski prepares lunch as he volunteers at the Salvation Army in Pottsville on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024...DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

Tara Grochowski, left, and Taylor Staller make garlic bread as they volunteer at the Salvation Army in Pottsville on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024...DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

Tara Grochowski, left, and Taylor Staller make garlic bread as they volunteer at the Salvation Army in Pottsville on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024...DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

Mike Wozniski prepares lunch as he volunteers at the Salvation Army in Pottsville on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024...DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

"We see about 60 people every week," Capt. Betty said.

"The Salvation Army could not run without volunteers," Derek said.

Carol Hinckle, 64,of Pottsville, was enjoying spaghetti with her daughter's godson, 4. She doesn't come every Friday, but said the food is appreciated.

Before the meal, Capt. Betty talked about treating others with respect. The clothes people wear isn't important, but who they are as people is.

"We must love others as ourselves," she said.

The Salvation Army is open Monday to Friday and has a Sunday service. A food pantry is also available Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment. Plus, emergency food is available.

To volunteer or donate to the Salvation Army, call 570-622-5252.