The Salvation Army of Midland/Odessa is continuing it’s promotion of the national Love Beyond campaign, and in March they are focusing on Love Beyond Late Bills. Millions of Americans face daily financial struggles and uphill battles to escape poverty. The Salvation Army in Midland/Odessa works all year round to remove the constant burden of worry and stress to provide hope and a way forward for those in need.
One surprise expense, like an unexpected car repair or medical bill, can be the difference between affording rent, buying groceries or paying monthly bills.
“We have people coming through our doors every day seeking basic financial assistance and asking if we are able to help them pay their overdue bills,” Captain Robert Coriston with The Salvation Army of Midland/Odessa said in a news release. “Many individuals and families are coming to us for the first time having never been in such dire financial need before. The last few years have been particularly difficult as layoffs and salary cuts have taken their toll, along with the increase in living expenses all impacting family budgets.”
Howard was a resident at The Salvation Army shelter in Midland. After diligently working with his assigned case worker, he secured a job and soon was able to move out of the shelter and into his own apartment. Howard was doing very well but after several months of living independently, he became sick and was unable to work. With reduced income it wasn’t long before he was unable to pay his bills. Howard reached out to The Salvation Army for assistance, and they were able to help cover his outstanding bills until he was able to get back to work.
“Without the help of The Salvation Army, I’d have been back living on the streets,” said Howard. “I knew they would be there for me again when I needed the help, just like they have been before.”
When funds are available, The Salvation Army helps pay overdue bills, preventing homelessness and stabilizing housing for individuals and families who have fallen behind on their expenses and are at risk of losing their homes. They can help customers of TXU, Reliant, Ambit, Just Energy, Stream, Direct, and Atmos.
“It’s much more than just paying the bills at The Salvation Army. They really cared about me beyond just my immediate financial needs,” said Howard. “Working with my case manager, I took a finance class and that helped me realize what was most important: the things I did need and some things I could maybe do without. They didn’t just stop after helping pay the bills, they were there, and I know they’re still there if I need anything.”
Ongoing case management is an integral component of The Salvation Army’s work with individuals and families in need. Clients work one-on-one with case managers, often connecting with local community partners, to resolve complex issues and plan their way forward.
“Our work really does stretch well beyond the moment of crisis,” said Coriston. “Yes, we’re there in the moment of crisis and greatest need, but we are also committed to Love Beyond the utility bills, rent or whatever a family is facing, to get them on a pathway to success and self-sufficiency.”
The Salvation Army is issuing a rallying cry for Americans to “Love Beyond.” The organization’s message is simply that when we Love Beyond late bills, Love Beyond shelter and Love Beyond disasters, we can provide hope and help for millions who need it. Love Beyond is also a symbol of the resources and programs that so many people rely on year-round when they turn to The Salvation Army for assistance.
In Midland/Odessa, The Salvation Army has already provided 4,484 nights of shelter, 12,078 meals and $29,958 in financial assistance to individuals and families in 2024. The best way to ensure services continue for those in need is to visit www.salvationarmymidland.org (or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY) where you can make a donation or sign up for a sustaining gift of $25 per month, which could help a family overcome the risks of poverty and eviction.
Learn more about Love Beyond by visiting The Salvation Army’s website at www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/video-hub/. For more information about how you can help, please contact Captain Robert Coriston at 432-683-3614.
