The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Founded more than 130 years ago by William Booth, The Salvation Army is a religious and social service organization, a branch of the Christian Church dedicated to the battle against sin and despair.

There is an integrated ministry to body, mind and soul. The Army seeks not only to improve the physical environment and provide for material needs, but also to reveal the power of Christ's love. Its social services programs assist children, the elderly, families, and those battling addiction.

The Western Territory, one of four territories in USA, operates under the leadership of Commissioner James Knaggs.

The territory is divided geographically into 10 divisions, each headed by a divisional commander. Divisions are comprised of the corps community centers - or churches - and other specialized service centers. The corps is the basic service unit of The Salvation Army and provides religious and social services adapted to the needs of the community.

The Salvation Army of Clark County is located in the beautiful city of Vancouver USA. Vancouver is the fifth largest city in the State of Washington. The greater Vancouver Clark County area has a population of 337,110. Sometimes thought of as a bedroom community to Portland, it has come a long way in gaining its own identity with employers like Hewlett-Packard, S.E.H America Inc., and Wafertech.

The Army here is a place where one can develop as a whole person in service to God and man. It is where people can recognize their need for a merciful God and receive His unconditional love and acceptance. And, after receiving the unconditional love of a merciful God, one is compelled to invite others to experience the same relationship. We believe the only way one can truly be whole is to love and be loved by the One who made us all.

The Corps ministry seeks to develop men and women of all ages into people who intentionally influence others for the good of the individual and community. One way this is done is through traditional Sunday morning services, mid-week Bible studies for adults, Adventure Corps and Sunbeams for the young people.

Social service programs help improve the quality of life for low-income people who have material, financial and social needs. By giving food, clothing, housing and other financial assistance we meet their immediate need. We reach out to the community through two vital programs at our Social Services Center: Family Services and the Stop Hunger Warehouse. Family Services responds to the direct immediate needs of individuals. Our Warehouse program serves other agencies throughout the greater Clark County area. Through the Stop Hunger Warehouse we network with other agencies to broaden our outreach and strengthen the efficiency of local human services.

We are currently working with the community to develop a new Center for Social Services to house traditional social service programs and a resource center for other agencies and businesses meeting human needs. By bringing resources together in one facility, we will enhance the ability to achieve self-sufficiency.

http://www.vancouver.salvationarmynw.org