“We’re grateful to our friends at Toyota for making this gift possible,” said Major Scott Shelbourn, commander of the Twin Cities Salvation Army. “It’s donations like this one that make the work of The Salvation Army possible, and these gifts from Toyota will directly help improve the quality of life for our guests and clients.”
The boots and socks came just in time as below zero weather conditions are expected this week. Benjamin Brown, vehicle marketing manager Chicago Region, Toyota Motor North America participated in the program and helped families try on new boots. Brown who grew up in Minneapolis said he knows how cold Minneapolis can get and is grateful to work with The Salvation Army Northern Division to support local families. Due to COVID restrictions, Toyota also treated the families to an on-the-go hot buffet-style boxed lunch prepared by Milton’s Vittles, and coloring books created by Munson Steed, CEO, Steed Media/Rollingout.com that focuses on driving the imagination of children in science, math, enterprise and the arts.
This is Toyota’s first year supporting the program in Minneapolis, inspired to reach out to support families in the George Floyd community. At one time, George Floyd worked at The Salvation Army Harbor Light Center in Minneapolis. Overall, this is Toyota’s 11th year supporting this program, which has also benefited families in Detroit, Baltimore, Chicago, Harrisburg, PA and Washington, D.C.
The Salvation Army Parkview Worship & Service Center has been serving the North Minneapolis community since it opened in 1897. Celebrating 125 years of service, the center’s Food Pantry distributes food to families struggling with food insecurity. They also provide emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities, car repair, prescriptions and more – all designed to help keep families in their homes. Their Pathway of Hope family mentoring program helps families escape the grip of generational poverty. Services are rounded out with a variety of recreation and education programs, and neighbors can attend worship services every Sunday in the Parkview Chapel.
