Lauren Van Damme, a pilot for Southwest Airlines for 19 years, met The Salvation Army through the Angel Tree program in Columbia, South Carolina. She was so impressed with the Army’s mission and ministry that she became a faithful member of the advisory board.

Out of all of The Salvation Army’s programs, the Snack Pack program became near and dear to her heart.

The Snack Pack program supplies lunch bags with snack items for kids, high in protein and low in sugar. Attention is also given to avoiding products which may affect allergies in kids, such as peanuts.

What’s equally important to this nutritious program is the number of doors of opportunity opened to The Salvation Army.

In Charleston County, police patrol cars follow the Salvation Army canteen throughout low-income neighborhoods. While police officers build positive relationships with the kids, The Army distributes the Snack Packs, knowing that it might be the only nutritious food they will have that day.

Through this program, a monthly movie night, a local swimming program, and a mobile pharmacy have been developed.

To learn about Salvation Army programs near you, visit SALVATIONARMYUSA.ORG