The Enid News and Eagle, Enid, OK

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August 16, 2008

Enid Salvation Army is offering a hand up

By Bridget Nash, Staff Writer

When the bills keep stacking up and that measly check doesn’t even begin to cover them, many people say, “If only I could just get a little money saved, everything would be okay.”

Enid’s Salvation Army makes that possible for people who need a little help getting back on their feet.

Salvation Army offers temporary housing with the mission of getting people back on their feet and able to deal with their finances.

“Those who are only here for two to three nights, even up to a week, stay free,” said Maj. John Poff, Salvation Army commanding officer.

For those who choose to stay longer, there is a small fee.

“If they go to work and they want to live here in the transitional program, it is 25 percent of their paycheck,” said Poff.

For 25 percent of their paycheck ,those in the transitional program get shelter, three meals a day, clothing and counseling.

Those participating in the program are asked to put 50 percent of their check into a savings account until they are able to move out and get a place of their own.

The rate for participating in the transitional program is the same whether it is one person participating or an entire family.

For example, if a family of four had one working parent, that parent would only have to pay a fee of 25 percent for the entire family to stay at the shelter.

“Most of them find it is a real good deal until they can get on their feet,” said Poff.

Legally, Salvation Army is allowed to charge a 50 percent fee for those who stay, but the program officials have decided to keep the rate at 25 percent.

“What we charge them doesn’t cover the cost by any stretch of the imagination,” said Poff.

In fact, Poff said the 25 percent fee barely covers the cost of food for those staying at the shelter.

Anyone who would like information on Salvation Army’s transitional program may call (580) 237-1910 or visit 516 N. Independence.

“I think it’s a worthwhile story for the world to know that there is a program where people can get a hand up instead of a hand-out,” said Poff.

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