For many, the ice storm that struck Texas in February 2021 is now only a distant memory. But for The Salvation Army in Brownwood the challenge of repairing damaged property and replacing equipment remains a daily struggle impacting the organization’s ability to effectively serve the needs of the community.

“The Salvation Army building was significantly damaged during the ice storm back in February, and it has been so difficult to secure parts and get the necessary repair work done,” said Stacy Tennison, Director of The Salvation Army Service Center. “All of the ceiling tiles had to replaced, a wall had to be torn down, and the entire building needed repainting. Toilets and sinks in both bathrooms were ruined and needed replacing too. It’s been so long that some people from our community have assumed that we are remodeling, but this is very much repair work from the storm, even though we’re now almost eight months later.”

In addition to the building, much of the kitchen equipment and appliances were also damaged or destroyed. While insurance will eventually replace some of the larger items, others were not covered. “We had 14 roaster ovens that were found in standing water after the storm and had to be trashed,” said Tennison. “All of the food in the walk-in freezers and refrigerators was ruined and had to be discarded. Unfortunately, insurance only covers a small percentage of those food costs.”

Despite the ongoing challenges, The Salvation Army has continued to serve a free lunch to those in need, three days each week. “At on the onset of the COVID pandemic, in April 2020, we made the adjustment to serve lunch-to-go every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, instead of a hot meal served in our dining room five days a week. Even though we’re serving fewer days, our numbers remain very high,” said Tennison.

From May-August 2021, serving three days a week, The Salvation Army provided free lunch to 7,136 individuals. In 2019, before the pandemic and while serving five days a week, 6,552 individuals received lunch during that same time period.

“Despite the daily challenges caused by the storm and change of schedule we are feeding an average of 140 people each day,” said Tennison. “That is amazing! For many of those days, meals were served out of the mobile feeding unit because of the damage to the kitchen.”

“I am so thankful for The Salvation Army. The meals are very good and without them I would only eat once a day,” said a regular lunchtime client. Another added, “Not only is the food good, but we also love getting to see The Salvation Army workers. They always have a smile on their face. It really brightens my day.”

With the holidays fast approaching, The Salvation Army is appealing to local businesses, churches, and individuals for donations to help fund the ongoing lunch program and other services. Some specific needs include an ice machine, replacement roaster ovens, and bottled water.

“Food costs have increased, and we have not been able to receive as much food from the food bank due to the limitations of using a refrigerated truck,” said Tennison. “I want to thank the community for their support in the past and ask that they consider partnering with and giving to The Salvation Army to help with our immediate needs.”

For more information about The Salvation Army or to make a donation please contact Stacy Tennison at (325) 646-5369.