CLEVELAND – The economy his hit the family unit in northeast Ohio especially hard this year.
The aftermath of the foreclosure crisis, job loss and rising prices have more families turning to Cleveland’s Salvation Army for help.
In fact the Salvation Army’s Zelma George Family shelter has no room remaining this Christmas weekend.
“We have more than 100 at our facility, and 70 percent of those people are young children,” said Salvation Army manager Beau Hill. “The need is not just here in Cleveland, it’s hitting the inner ring suburbs like Parma and Brook Park, we’re seeing more of those people too.
In response to the growing need, a group of local businesses led by Cleveland’s Milano Monuments, hosted a Christmas party at the shelter. Homeless children received gifts, and their parents were given Walmart gift cards.
“I just got a hug from a little girl and it sent shivers down my spine,” said Jim Milano. “We’re honored to be able to help the folks down here.”
If you would like to donate to the Cleveland’s Salvation Army Family Shelter, make checks payable to the “Salvation Army,'” and send them to: 1710 Prospect Ave., Cleveland, Ohio 44115. You can also make a donation online through the Salvation Army’s website .
Shannon Burns and her three young children will be staying at the family shelter this Christmas, after she lost her home.
“This shelter brings us together more, keeping us safe, and keeping us off the streets,” said Burns. “The gifts were wonderful, especially when you can’t afford to do it yourself.”
