Ernest

Welfare

Ernest receives an invalid’s benefit, is single and lives alone. He is just one of the thousands of people The Salvation Army is helping through its network of Community Ministries centres, which includes food banks, budgeting advice and social support.

Ernest had struggled to get by for some considerable time. ‘Being on a benefit makes it especially hard to cope with rising prices,’ he says.

He first came to The Salvation Army about two years ago when he got behind on his electricity bill. He was short of money and needed help.

‘I had heard from a friend who had got help a long time ago that you could get a food parcel from the Sallies if things were very tough,’ he says. ‘I found coming to the food bank very humbling. I had to make my mind up to make an effort.’

The Salvation Army talked to Ernest about his situation and gave him a food parcel to meet his immediate need.

‘I found it helpful to get food assistance – it would have been tough otherwise.’

Salvation Army staff also gave Ernest budget advice and made sure he was getting the financial support he was entitled to. They were available to negotiate with business firms on his behalf.

Explains Ernest: ‘I had bank charges that were making things harder. My budget advisor talked to the bank and they agreed to reduce the charges.’

In appreciation of the support he received, Ernest has been giving back by volunteering at The Salvation Army twice a week, sweeping the courtyard and emptying rubbish bins.

‘Things would have been grim without help, so I am really grateful for the assistance I have had from The Salvation Army.’