The Salvation Army in Williams Lake is more than home to the community food bank.
It is a place where people can come together to socialize, enjoy some recreation, find support, and learn new skills.
“I am excited to begin new programs together with Lisa Ratz, the new assistant programs coordinator,” says Barb Humble, the Salvation Army’s new programs co-ordinator.
“Our goal is to make the drop-in centre/programs department a warm and inviting environment for everyone to enjoy.”
She says the craft program will continue on Monday afternoons from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Crafts and supplies are free for anyone who would like to join and there is a social tea and dessert afterwards.
Starting in the spring Tuesday afternoons from 1 to 2 p.m. will be devoted to a 10-week life skills program with classes held as often as needed and/or requested.
Thursday afternoons from 1 to 3 p.m. during the winter months there are movie matinees with new releases donated by Hollywood Video. Free popcorn and coffee or tea is provided.
There will also be a new gym/fitness centre opening soon. “We have personal trainer Kandee Wilkinson coming in for approximately four hours a week to work with anyone interested in fitness,” Ratz says.
The drop-in centre coffee counter is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily. There are pool tables, ping pong tables, shuffleboard, air hockey, a movie corner with many movies to choose from coffee/tea and other drinks are reasonably priced.
Darts will also be coming to the centre soon. She says donations of a pool table, bookshelves and fitness equipment would be gladly appreciated and accepted, and volunteers are also always welcome.
Friday afternoons from 1 to 2 p.m. Lisa Ratz is holding an A&D meeting with free coffee and dessert afterwards.
“This program is open to all and we look forward to anyone accessing this service,” Humble says. “Suggestions for new programs are always welcome.”
She encourages everyone to drop by to meet Lisa and herself and to see all the great new changes going at the Salvation Army. They can also be contacted at 250-305-2492.