The Bakersfield Voice

When we donate items from our houses to charity, whether it be from spring cleaning, moving or just trying to remove some clutter, most of us don't really know what happens to the items once they leave our hands, or who exactly benefits from it.  I am the Public Relations Director for the Salvation Army and what happens with the goods you donate to our organization is remarkable enough to share with the community.

The Salvation Army runs a non-profit alcohol and drug rehabilitation program called the Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC).  There are several of these centers across the US and Bakersfield is fortunate enough to have one.  The center is located on Union and 19th behind the Thrift Store.  Men who find themselves addicted to drugs and alcohol can enter this six-month program free of cost and receive the counseling, work therapy and spiritual guidance they need to become active, responsible and contributing members of the community. 

Whenever we buy anything at the Salvation Army Thrift Stores (there are two in Bakersfield- one on Union and one on Ming and Stine), the proceeds go directly to the local ARC in Bakersfield to help the members of our community that are plagued with addiction.  This is the only source of funding that the program has. 

It is important for the community to know that there are members of our own neighborhoods and families that rely on our donations to help them get a second chance in their lives.  So the next time you have goods that you no longer need, remember the Salvation Army ARC.  There are donation trailers set up at each of the Thrift Store locations, and you can also have your items picked up at no cost by calling 1-800-SA-TRUCK.