The Salvation Army of the Greater Baltimore Metropolitan Area’s projected deficit of $450,000 this year is jeopardizing a number of programs, the organization says.
That number reflects a significant percentage of its operating budget, which was just under $6.5 million in 2005.
“What’s happened is with the outpouring of support for the Hurricane Katrina victims — and we were a first responder and are still working with nonprofits and government agencies there — we’ve seen a ripple effect,” said Maj. Jim Arrowood, the local commanding officer. “It’s affecting our ability to maintain our programs here.”
Endangered Salvation Army-sponsored organizations include Boys & Girls Clubs in Highlandtown, West Baltimore, Middle River and Glen Burnie. The clubs expect 600 kids at their summer day camps alone. Rising energy costs are hurting, too, Boys & Girls Club Director Wanda Newton said.
“I’d hate to see any of our programs or actual facilities close,” said Newton, who added that two local Salvation Army day care centers closed following a drop in donations after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
“We offer a range of activities after school and year-round, including education, recreation and athletics, and technology training for kids 6 to 18. A lot wouldn’t have anything after school — they’d be at home or on the street.”
The Salvation Army, celebrating its 125th year, runs family service centers in Baltimore City and Howard, Carroll and Anne Arundel counties that help with rent, utility bills and other necessities. The group funds the Booth House, a 19-bed transitional housing program and 56-person homeless shelter for women and children in Baltimore.
Camp Puh’tok in Monkton, a Salvation Army institution since 1941, could feel the squeeze. The camp works with Baltimore County schools and their outdoor program, and takes 550 city and county kids camping each summer.
“It’s a very traditional camp,” said camp director Ed Kihn. “We teach camping skills, canoeing, horseback riding. We take the kids swimming, biking and hiking. Without our scholarship program, many of kids would never have the chance to do these things.”
More information can be found at www.tsabaltimore.org.
