The Salvation Army Lockport Awarded $40,000 Grant

The Patrick P. Lee Foundation selects local Capital Campaign Project:

LOCKPORT, NY – The officers and staff of The Salvation Army Lockport were pleased to receive word that they have been awarded a $40,000 grant commitment from the Patrick P. Lee Foundation. The money is in direct response to the New Building Project that The Salvation Army Lockport began this past May. A check for $20,000 has already been received and next year, after some milestones are reached, the remaining $20,000 will be sent.

The Building Project's Capital Campaign is currently at 35% of their $3,000,000 goal, thanks to this grant. Majors John and Martha Wheeler, launched the capital Campaign to raise funds for a much needed building to house the programs and services that are in greater demand today than ever.

Currently housed at 50 Cottage Street in downtown Lockport, The Salvation Army's Community Center will receive a long awaited renovation and expansion to accommodate the growing number of children and teens that attend the "drop in" programs, held every day. Chris Gresart, the Director of the Community Center is excited about the possibilities to grow the number of families that are positively impacted by the services offered at The Salvation Army. Mr. Gresart was himself a patron of this very Community Center, more than 30 years ago.

Commanding Officer, Major John Wheeler chooses and develops college and high school students, youth ministers and community volunteers to provide "….lots of opportunities for each child to connect with an adult and receive guidance, support and love. Whether we are helping with homework or playing basketball, The Salvation Army's mission is like an umbrella over all the details of the work we do."

With the addition of about 7,000 square feet of space, The Salvation Army will be able to expand its current programs, as well as offer additional programs including youth nutrition, socialization and education. Since 1884, The Salvation Army has been a vital link within Western New York's human services network. The mission of The Salvation Army Lockport is to raise hope and to change lives by meeting basic human needs and socialization programs.