Comrie emphasized how Centre of Hope services being available 24 hours a day is one of the most important aspects of their work. He mentioned that there is in-house staff at all times, serving between 100 to 200 individuals a day. They also provide on-site meals and housing for around 50 individuals. He expressed respect and admiration for all the people involved in serving the community and the extent to which they go to do so.
“I get to see the folks of The Salvation Army, in particular the shelter workers, the outreach team, [and] we have two nurses on staff — they just don’t take a day off. We are a 365 day a year social service.”
Comrie said that some of the most touching aspects about this line of work are the success stories of those they help. He shared the testimony of his friend and colleague, John, who spent years living on the streets of different cities. John and his girlfriend learned they were expecting a baby while still homeless, which became a turning point for them both. With the help offered by the members of The Salvation Army’s outreach team, they felt supported in their journey to leave behind drug addiction and receive care for their health. John was able to turn his life around for the better and the couple had their baby boy. John now works with Comrie at the Centre full time.
Comrie explained how rewarding it is to witness instances where people give back to the community. John is a strong example that impacted him in a positive way. Comrie believes that real impactful change is possible, and that multiplying and spreading these types of stories is the ideal outcome.
“I think that’s the teensiest little tidbit of what’s possible when the right resources are available at the right time for the right person.”
The Salvation Army operates a number of different services, some of which are publicly funded through BC Housing contracts and Fraser Health. They also rely on fundraising to help make their work in the community possible.
Part of the organization’s work around December is focused on the Christmas fundraising initiative known as the Christmas Kettle campaign and spreading awareness about the volunteer opportunities. Comrie said there are over 1,000 two-hour volunteer shifts available at 15 different locations across Abbotsford and Mission throughout the month of December.
This year, Comrie is excited for the largest Christmas Kettle campaign launched in the area so far, aiming to fundraise $175,000 to help as many people in need as possible.
“It’s a big goal, but it has to be a big goal because the needs keep increasing in our community. We have more people than ever coming to our door.”
Comrie invites anyone interested in volunteering to reach out to The Salvation Army, highlighting how it is one of the best ways to support their campaign this holiday season. He stated that the most important part is that everyone is invited to get involved in their own unique way such as spreading awareness of community concerns, the type of work The Salvation Army does, engaging with the community, and sharing real human stories with empathy.
“I think when we can raise awareness by paying attention to a story like this or engaging with our work in one way or another, then it has a ripple effect on the community.”
