The Salvation Army   

The Salvation Army was established in 1865 by William and Catherine Booth in order to bring hope, help, and salvation to the desperately poor, addicted, and trafficked in London. In 1879, The Salvation Army expanded to the United States and reached Orange County, California in 1887. Today, The Salvation Army is one of the most recognized and beloved charities in the world. Approximately 30 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year. The Salvation Army takes our brand promise of “Doing the Most Good” and our mission "to meet human needs in God’s name without discrimination" seriously. With a long history of compassionate, effective and efficient service to others, many have recognized The Salvation Army as a leader in the non-profit sector. Currently, our Social Services Department operates: a 24 hour 325-bed emergency shelter for both men and women; a transitional housing program for homeless families in Orange County; an Anti-Trafficking program (as founding partners of the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force) with wrap around services and immediate safe housing for rescued survivors; and 3 Family Services offices. Furthermore, we offer: 2 Youth Centers with after school physical fitness activities, homework help, and a variety of other youth activities; 1 state licensed childcare center; 1 state licensed preschool; a no-cost, 170 bed facility with a comprehensive rehabilitation program for chemically dependent men and women; OC614 - an outreach to homeless individuals living on the streets; the Crescendo School of Music - a scholarship program for youth desiring to achieve a high level of musical proficiency; and 3 worship centers - offering weekly worship services and a variety of classes, community and relational opportunities, and events. Seasonal assistance is also provided and includes: a Christmas "Toy n Joy" Shop where parents of families in need can select new toys and grocery store gift cards, a Back-to-School shopping spree for 550 children, and 2 subsidized summer camps for youth. Lastly, on-site disaster relief services are a priority mission for The Salvation Army. In times of disaster, we are prepared to respond with a fully mobile and operational canteen, offering a variety of emergency assistance from food preparation, water and shelter to connections with our other social services. Please see Disaster tab for more detail.