LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) - Some Arkansans who are dealing with difficult financial situations are about to take another hit.
Because of budget cutbacks and the economy, The Salvation Army is reducing the number of meals they provide for the needy. The shelter will no longer serve breakfast and lunch to walk-ins on the weekend. They will still provide those two meals to anyone who is staying at the shelter. But, for people who visit the shelter, 1111 W. Markham St., just to eat, they will only have dinner available to them.
"It means a lot when you have a hot meal," explains Shaun, who is homeless and appreciates The Salvation Army's help. Because of budget cutbacks with the charitable organization, fewer meals will be served to people like Shaun.
"That's bad news," he say. "It's pretty hard to go hungry."
Workers with The Salvation Army had to evaluate what to do when they learned about the new budget.
"We've got to make some changes and a lot of that is based on funding." Major Alan Hill says, explaining that The Salvation Army's budget and donations have dropped.
"We just compared October of last year to this year and there is a $40,000 difference, so we are looking to see where that is, but we know we are having a hard time."
That difference is forcing The Salvation Army to make some difficult decisions. Major Hill said while these decisions are difficult, they will affect the least amount of people possible.
"There are a lot of other churches providing that service and we are very thankful they are doing that," Hill said. "So a lot of the ones that come here are just going to another place."
Workers hope there are no more cuts coming and are staying focused on helping as many people as they can. In order to serve more people, the organization has some open positions. It is looking to hire a cook, and seasonal kettle coordinator, part time kitchen, desk monitor/custodian, social service case manager. To apply for a position send your resume to McFadden@uss.salvationarmy.org or fax it to (501) 376-3532.