Wrexham’s Salvation Army launches appeal for volunteers to join its team

A charity is appealing for more volunteers to help it continue the support it offers on a weekly basis to the Wrexham community.

The Salvation Army’s Wrexham corps (church), located on Garden Road, already has a strong number of volunteers that offer support across various departments.

However it has revealed that it still needs more and has a number of opportunities available for those interesting in sparing a few hours a week.

With a total of 45, volunteers are aged from their early 20s to their mid 80s, and are from a range of backgrounds and professions, including a retired primary school teacher and a retired midwife, and some with various special additional needs.

The 45 volunteers, men and women, support the corps across a number of departments and occasions; from supporting in the kitchen and on reception to assisting in the Community Care Hub and weekly drop in.

Mark Magee, 45, originally from Ireland, found himself using the services of The Salvation Army in Wrexham, when he became homeless after falling on hard times.

Now, back on his feet, he supports them by offering his time to volunteer, serving in the weekly drop in and assisting with job searches at its Employment Plus scheme.

He said: “During a tough time, I found myself living on the streets and finding the occasional night in a shelter and regularly used the Salvation Army’s weekly drop in; I came for a hot breakfast each day and to just talk to people.

“My health took a turn for the worst and that encouraged me to seek help, The Salvation Army helped me out a lot, they saved me, if it wasn’t for them I’d be lost.

“Volunteering for the corps means that I get to share my experiences and show people who are in the situation that I was once in, that there is hope, there is help out there and volunteering enables me to signpost them in the right direction, which does a lot for my own mental health too.”

Volunteering opportunities available at The Salvation Army in Wrexham include supporting the reception desk and also the catering elements of the centre.

The corps welcomes a variety of skills including good communications, computer and organisational skills. Also welcome are volunteers with experience in a variety of sectors including customer service, catering and retail.

Karen Edwards, community manager at The Salvation Army Wrexham said: “Our volunteers mean everything to us.

“We simply wouldn’t be able to function without them, we physically couldn’t do the work that we do and we’re so reliant on the support that each and every volunteer gives to us, giving up their time, they really are invaluable.

“The hard work and dedication that they show means that the community centre is very person-centred and in order for us to continue our work in the Wrexham community we’re on the lookout for more volunteers.

“From people with additional needs, looking to get back into work or just to take up some time in their day; we see the potential in everybody and always try to help them achieve their goal, whether volunteering is used as a stepping stone at getting back into work or allowing someone the opportunity to help them move on in their life’s journey.”

Anyone interested in supporting The Salvation Army Wrexham in a volunteering role can call 01978 311076 or email [email protected].