Winton Salvation Army celebrates 80 volunteers powering community hub

published on 18 Sep 2025

From a 90-year-old running an activity group to a teenager helping after school, The Salvation Army in Winton has celebrated the army of volunteers who are the lifeblood of its community centre, which sees over 300 people through its doors each day.

At a special service and Sunday roast lunch, over 80 volunteers were honoured for their work, which enables the centre to run an incredible 200 sessions of activities each month for people of all ages. The celebration highlighted that without this dedicated team, vital services from the charity shop to community groups simply wouldn't function.

Winton Volunteers — Winton Salvation Army celebrates 80 volunteers powering its community hub, supporting over 300 people daily.

The event celebrated volunteers of all generations, including Jess, the youngest volunteer who helps in the charity shop after school, and 90-year-old Glenda, who recently took over running the Monday Activate group when the previous group leader, Gwen retired at 93 this year. Monday Activate is friendly group of Over 60s that gets together to play board games, do crafts or just chat. The intergenerational effort ensures the centre remains a vital hub of support and friendship for the entire Winton community.

“Our volunteers are absolutely the backbone of all that we do. We simply could not open our doors without them. And more than that, it is how they do it – all the work is delivered with such grace and compassion. They really do represent the essence of The Salvation Army by loving others.”

Tina Shave, Community Centre Manager at The Salvation Army on Latimer Road.

The Salvation Army in Winton remains steadfast in its mission to bring hope and practical support to the community, combining immediate relief with long-term solutions. Whether it’s providing pre-loved clothing, offering a listening ear, or connecting individuals with vital services, the team is dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of those they serve. As the winter draws near, the public is reminded that Winton Salvation Army in collaboration with local churches runs a coat hub, providing warm winter clothing to those in need.

The church and charity combines recreational, spiritual and practical support to empower youths emphasizing long-term resilience. For example, the Ark Youth Club is a weekly programme that aims to build relationships and provide a safe space for young people. It offers diverse activities like pool, Xbox, Nintendo Wii, cooking, table tennis and film.

The transformation of their garden into a sensory haven, supported by local partners and volunteers, further exemplifies their commitment, providing a tranquil space for people to relax and enjoy nature, enhancing their emotional and social well-being. To learn more about the Salvation Army in Winton visit their website: Winton | The Salvation Army.