[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 127 (Thursday, September 10, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2243-E2244]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SALVATION ARMY'S PRESENCE IN 
                         ALTOONA, PENNSYLVANIA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BILL SHUSTER

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 10, 2009

  Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 125th 
Anniversary of the Salvation Army's presence in Altoona, Pennsylvania. 
The Salvation Army has had a long and cherished history assisting the 
community with essential services like utility assistance, food 
banking, emergency shelter, clothing, Christmas help, and many other 
services critical to the lives of families in need.
  The exact date of the founding of the Salvation Army in Altoona 
remains unclear after all of these years. However, their ministry was 
one of action, not of chronicle. In the beginning the ministry of the 
Salvation Army in Altoona, like many others, was primarily a ministry 
of the street, a ministry that took its message and its critical 
services directly to the people.

[[Page E2244]]

  Over the past 125 years, the Salvation Army in Altoona has occupied 
about 15 different locations. On December 5, 1976, the Salvation Army 
built their permanent location after a successful capital fund drive.
  At different holidays the Salvation Army provides gifts to the 
nursing homes, VA hospitals, and anywhere individuals might not receive 
necessary needs at any time. The Salvation Army in Altoona does not 
discriminate against anyone based on their race, color, creed, or 
religion. The Salvation Army in Altoona maintains a presence in the 
community to assist and love and to meet the needs of all those who 
need it.
  Historically, the Salvation Army has provided programs for children 
to help with their self esteem and caring for others, women and men 
programs, and older adult programs. The Salvation Army in Altoona still 
provides these services and will carry on its tradition of social and 
worship services in the community for many years to come. I 
congratulate them on this wonderful milestone.

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