Although the Salvation Army doesn’t have a physical building in Merrill, it has been active in Merrill since the 1970s helping needy residents.
The Merrill Unit of the Salvation Army was organized to provide emergency and supplementary assistance. Many remember the much needed help that was provided after the Merrill tornado.
Last year, 106 requests for help were fulfilled including 61 requests for utilities, 40 requests for rental assistance and five requests for lodging. The residents helped were 469 adults and 323 children. Two families living in campers and two families living in tents were helped to find more permanent and warmer shelter.
Requests are fulfilled through the office of St. Vincent dePaul, which is located in the Menard Center next to the hospital, Money raised through the annual bell-ringing campaign is what is used to fulfill requests. The group Food for Kids, which provides food to children on the weekendds, is also partially funded with money raised through bell ringing.
How can you help this year’s campaign? By volunteering to be a bell-ringer at one of three locations: Dave’s County Market, Walmart or Lee’s Piggly Wiggly. To volunteer, call Sharon Anderson at 715-536-9166 or email her at [email protected]. You can also connect with the Merrill Salvation Army through their Facebook page to volunteer and see who’s ringing.
You may work a one- or two-hour shift; ring alone, with a partner or with a group.
If you are unable to ring, but wish to donate, please send a check to Salvation Army, P.O. Box 614, Merrill, WI 54452.