Winton Salvation Army thanks their 100 volunteers: "Foundation of our work"

The Salvation Army in Winton yesterday hosted a dinner at its community centre on Latimer Road to thank its 100 volunteers who help the church and charity provide vital services to the local community. This, as the country celebrates Volunteer Week (1-6June). 

From serving hot meals to people who are forced to live on the streets, providing a warm welcome and listening ear to people who are isolated or lonely, to wrapping Christmas gifts for families who would otherwise go without, The Salvation Army relies on thousands of brilliant volunteers who give their time and love to help others. 

Volunteers at Winton Salvation Army lead community groups that strive to address specific community needs. Some of the groups are: Footcare, Homelessness, Activate, Connect, Friendship Club, Recovery, Toddlers, Youth Work, Messy Church, Child Contact Centre, Sensory Group, Nifty Knitters, Singing By Heart, Kids Club.

Tina Shave, the Community Centre Manager said volunteers are the foundation of the work The Salvation Army does in service of the Winton community. She said their passion, compassion and love in non-judgemental and unwavering.

‘There is always something to do’

Sue is a retired 71-year-old office manager who has been volunteering at the community centre for almost 3 years. 

“I love admin work and organising things. I come here on Mondays and lend my professional skills. In a place that has over 100 volunteers and staff, you can imagine the effort and logistics that is needed here. One of my tasks is managing the volunteers register: everyone has to be documented, we need to know which groups are doing what on what day, do we have space, what can we shift around, are there people making donations. I feel like I am still at my office desk.” 

Glenda is a 91-year-old volunteer who has been giving her time for over 30 years. She currently co-leads Activate, a Monday afternoon group that helps people with physical, mental, or social challenges. True to its name, the group's goal is "to make something work" — and it does so by welcoming everyone, whether they have lost a spouse, struggle with their health, or simply haven't spoken to another person in days. Through activities like colouring, word searches, crafts, and conversation, along with games, birthday cakes, and a listening ear, Glenda creates a space where no one is barred and everyone belongs.

Glenda said, “I get home sometimes absolutely shattered and think, why am I doing this? But then I remember we're giving people who haven't spoken to anyone in days a place to belong—and that work, helping others, is what's kept me alive all these years. Putting a smile on someone’s face help you stay young!”

Patrick who has been a volunteer at Winton Salvation Army for three years was helped by The Salvation Army and now volunteers for companionship and by way of giving back. He said: 

“I look forward to going to Winton Salvation Army every day. I set up for all the community programmes, clean where needed, tidy the centre and do whatever they need me to do. Why do I go there? I let go of all the negative things from my head when I get there and I feel relaxed when I help others. I see that I am not the only one worried, I try to help and in addition I feel very good in the whole Salvation Army team. This centre, these people - they are my family and I trust them totally. I love them all very much.”

For more information about The Salvation Army’s work in Winton or to find out how you can support their efforts, visit Winton | The Salvation Army.