Salvation Army’s ‘Love Beyond’ Campaign Assists Residents With Utility Bills

SAN ANGELO, TX — As economic challenges continue to affect families across the nation, The Salvation Army is stepping up to provide essential support for individuals struggling to pay their bills, including here in San Angelo. 

Whether due to layoffs, unexpected medical expenses or rising costs, many people are in need. Surprise expenses like unexpected car repairs or medical bills can be the difference between affording rent, buying groceries or paying monthly bills.

The Salvation Army’s “Love Beyond” campaign is focused on helping bridge the gap for people who run into financial trouble.

“We have people coming to us every day seeking basic financial assistance and asking if we are able to help them pay their overdue utility bills,” said Major Alfonso Martinez, with The Salvation Army of San Angelo. “For some, this is their first time asking for financial help and that can be a difficult and stressful situation. At The Salvation Army, we are here to listen and step in with practical assistance if we are able, and Love Beyond those late bills.”  

William, a hearing-impaired veteran, came to The Salvation Army after a routine checkup at a local medical center. The nurses reported he was undernourished, lonely and needed more than just medical care. They reached out to The Salvation Army and referred William for a visit.   

William lived alone since becoming a widower three years prior and relied completely on this social security check for survival. He explained that his income no longer covered his monthly expenses and confessed he alternated between purchasing groceries and paying his electric bill, especially through the winter months in order to stay warm. He had fallen behind on his bills and had received a final payment notice.     

The Salvation Army was able to provide food vouchers, make arrangements to cover his outstanding utilities and gave William a new pair of shoes to replace his old, worn ones. 

When funds are available, The Salvation Army helps pay overdue bills, preventing homelessness and stabilizing housing for individuals and families who have fallen behind on their expenses and are at risk of losing their homes.   

The best way to ensure services continue for those in need is to visit www.salvationarmysanangelo.org (or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY) where you can make a donation or sign up for a sustaining gift of $25 per month, which could help a family overcome the risks of poverty and eviction.      

Ongoing case management is an integral component of The Salvation Army’s work with individuals and families in need. Clients work one-on-one with case managers, often connecting with local community partners, to resolve complex issues and plan their way forward. 

“Our work really does stretch well beyond the moment of crisis,” said Martinez. “Yes, we’re there in that moment of greatest need, but we are also committed to Love Beyond the utility bills or whatever the individual is facing, to get them on a pathway to success and self-sufficiency.”  

For more information about how you can help The Salvation Army in San Angelo, or to make a financial donation, please call (325) 655-6981, visit our office at 34 W 3rd Street, or go to www.salvationarmysanangelo.org.