Watertown Salvation Army celebrates 125 years of community service with Saturday gathering

One of the nation's oldest Salvation Armies is in Watertown, and to help celebrate 125 years of service, the community is invited to a free event Saturday.

Watertown's Salvation Army was founded in 1897 on the Goss Block. It has moved several times since then. In 1920, it called South Broadway Avenue home before opening its third location at the airbase housing project in 1947.

More: Brad Johnson: We all need a change of perspective; start by revisiting simpler times

"It was for programming," said Capt. Dennis Jolly, corps officer for the Watertown Salvation Army. "They had a Sunday school at the airbase and needed youth programming."

The purchase of a Baptist church on First Avenue Southeast was completed in 1997. The church was used to house all programming and meet the religious service needs of the Salvation Army.

"The Salvation Army stayed there for 12 years, but workload increased, and the building was becoming too small and crowded for all of the activities going on," said Jolly.

The final move in 1988 put The Salvation Army in a space big enough to open a thrift store at 621 Fourth St. S.E.

Character-building and a helping hand

The Salvation Army offers a range of service programs, including rent and utility assistance, food programs, thrift store vouchers, a back-to-school backpack program and toys for kids at Christmas.

Providing an opportunity for area youth to build character is one of the most popular events at The Salvation Army. Children are invited every Wednesday during the school year to Youth Night, where supper, field trips and craft activities are offered. Merit badges are awarded to youth who successfully meet their goals.

"It's just a place where youth can come and enjoy time with their friends. It's to give them something to do after school," Jolly said.

There is also a summer camp in Sioux City, Iowa, where youth spend a week swimming, making crafts, practicing archery, fishing and learning. The camp is open to all ages of youth, and there are a variety of camps to choose from, including music camp and outdoors adventures.

The summer camp, and all youth programs offered at The Salvation Army, are free.

"Camp has a snack shack where they can buy goodies. Each kid is given $5 so they can buy snacks while at camp," said Jolly.

More: Fallout Shelter Ministries works with System of Care to create emergency housing

The summer camp is a popular event with local youth. This year, 35 children from the area attended. But it is not just the youth programs seeing increased participation at The Salvation Army.

Inflation drives need for donations

"We are seeing an influx of people coming in due to the inflation," said Jolly. "Our meal programs are seeing an increased use from last year. We are serving over 80 individuals a night. It is usually between 50 and 60. We have been seeing constant growth in those numbers throughout the summer."

With the increased need for the free services offered at The Salvation Army, the organization continues to look to the community to help provide a helping hand for neighbors. Volunteers and donations are in short supply.

"Our pantry is low on food. We need things like canned goods and shelf-stable items like cereals," Jolly said. "We need gently used clothing and household items for our voucher program."

More than 60 households have been assisted through the church this year. And roughly $17,000 has been provided to help pay the utilities and rent of more than 40 families from the Watertown area.

"Local donations are what makes this all possible," said Jolly.

Watertown Salvation Army has new captains

Dennis Jolly and his wife Kelly recently moved to Watertown from Iowa to serve as captains. They both have lifelong experience with The Salvation Army and are excited to play a part in teaching faith and meeting the community's needs without discrimination.

"My wife and I are honored to serve here. It is a huge legacy to have. The Salvation Army is over 150 years (old). For Watertown to be 125 years, that's one of the few longest-remaining Salvation Armies in the country," he said.

More: Codington Co. plans spending big on infrastructure in '23. Here's how it'll be paid for.

The 125-year community celebration is Saturday. Families can enjoy bouncy houses, yard games and hot dogs for free. The event is from noon to 5 p.m. at McKinley Park.

A special worship service is set at The Salvation Army Church, 621 Fourth St. S.E., at 10:15 a.m. Sunday.

This article originally appeared on Watertown Public Opinion: The Salvation Army in Watertown celebrates 125 years in Saturday event