Salvation Army bringing bags of blessings to Faversham

Salvation Army leaders in Faversham have created a new way of supporting individuals and families in need in the town and beyond.

Blessings Bags are available to anyone experiencing hardship and are packed with essentials to help support those going through challenging times. Beth and Jon Munn are Pioneer Leaders at Faversham Salvation Army. Beth explained how the scheme works.

She said: “We support individuals including people who are sofa surfing, living on the streets and some people who are living on houseboats on the river. They are in need of specific items such as tents, water bottles, blankets and sleeping bags and we try to ascertain people’s circumstances and invite them to fill up a Blessings Bag to keep them going. We give them a sheet which shows what we have and they can choose what they need including things like underwear and toiletries. Throughout the summer, we’re also giving out suncream and hats and to everyone. 

“We believe both in practical support and compassionate care. Every Blessings Bag is a reminder to the recipient that they are not alone and that someone cares for them.” 

Since piloting the program this summer, Jonathan, Bethany and their team have packed more than 30 Blessings Bags and Jon said feedback from recipients has been overwhelmingly positive.

He said: “We see the impact this is having with smiles, tears, even hugs—signs that God's love is reaching hearts. These small acts of kindness speak louder than words. Some tell us the bags remind them they're seen, understood, and for us that is why we're doing this.”

Blessings Bags are available from Faversham Salvation Army, 4, Court Street, Faversham by dropping in, phoning 07771045382 or emailing Faversham.salvationarmy.org.uk

Items in high demand include assorted toiletries, socks and hygiene goods. Donations can be made directly to the Faversham Salvation Army.

Faversham Salvation Army offers services throughout the week including a coffee morning on Mondays, community wardrobe on the first Tuesday of the month and a fortnightly worship lounge on a Friday. 

For more information, go to www.salvationarmy.org.uk/faversham