The Salvation Army is widely recognized, especially around the holidays, for the important work it does. Its programs help people who struggle with homelessness and food insecurity.
“Every day, we get five to 10 calls for groceries, even though we don’t run a pantry,” said Susan Sharp, director of ministry and operations at the Salvation Army 360 Life Center in Clinton, Iowa. “It’s clear that hunger is a top need of our clientele, all year round.”
The Salvation Army has long had a presence in the area and joined the 360 Life Center in 2021. The Center works collaboratively with other local assistance groups to get clients the services they need, be that food, rent assistance or job opportunities. They also collaborate to give back to the community through programs like the graffiti cleanup project, a city-wide beautification effort Sharp led.
With grant funds from Alliant Energy, the 360 Life Center in Clinton helps bring its clients a major necessity: Groceries.
The organization gives a grocery gift cart to everyone who participates in the Salvation Army-Walmart Angel Tree Christmas gift-giving program for children. Sharp anticipates 100 families will receive a card.
“We couldn’t do this without Alliant Energy’s help,” Sharp said. “Our food pantries are overwhelmed with requests. The funding from Alliant Energy is a huge blessing because it enables us to brighten the holiday for people who are barely making ends meet.”
Alliant Energy has supported the Salvation Army Corps of Iowa with a $40,000 grant each year for two years; the funding for the 360 Life Center is part of this statewide effort.
“With the growing need for food across the state, paired with increasing grocery costs, we understand the importance of supporting the Salvation Army Corps of Iowa’s efforts to fight hunger,” said Leah Rodenberg, Alliant Energy’s senior community affairs program manager. “The Alliant Energy Impact Grant helps programs in 12 Iowa communities provide pantry supplies, hot meals, mobile feeding events and children’s weekend food programs, all of which align with our company purpose to serve our customers and build stronger communities.”
As a company with a strong commitment to end hunger and homelessness, Alliant Energy has welcomed the opportunity to support the Salvation Army Corps of Iowa.