HANFORD, Calif.
Two representatives from the Salvation Army sat down with Kings Network News to discuss the organization’s upcoming Back to School Bash, year-round assistance programs, volunteer opportunities, and its continued commitment to serving families throughout Kings County.

Captain Roger McCord and Corps Sergeant Major Jim Lent shared information about the Salvation Army’s services, including free school supplies for students, daily breakfast, emergency food assistance, holiday programs, senior activities, and opportunities for community members to get involved through volunteer work.

Back to School Bash Scheduled for August 7

The Salvation Army is preparing for one of its biggest annual community events, the Back to School Bash.

The event is scheduled for August 7 and will provide free backpacks and school supplies for students from Transitional Kindergarten through 12th grade.

Parents who need assistance are encouraged to register before the deadline.

“We are going to be supplying backpacks and school supplies to kids from TK all the way through 12th grade,” McCord said. “If parents are still looking for supplies for their children, we’d love to have them come sign up.”

Registration is available through August 3 at the Salvation Army, located at:

380 E. Ivy Street
Hanford, California

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Serving Kings County Since 1891

McCord explained that while many people recognize the Salvation Army for its seasonal programs, the organization has been serving Kings County for well over a century.

According to McCord, the local Salvation Army has been assisting residents since 1891 by offering emergency food, case management, counseling referrals, church services, and other forms of community support.

“Our goal is to meet the needs of the community by responding to the needs that actually exist,” McCord said.

Daily Breakfast and Emergency Food Assistance

The Salvation Army provides several food assistance programs throughout the week.

A free hot breakfast is offered Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

Emergency food boxes are also available Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Anyone in Kings County experiencing food insecurity may speak with Salvation Army staff to determine eligibility for emergency food assistance.

Additional Community Programs

McCord also highlighted several other programs available to the public, including Sunday worship services, weekly Bible study, Thanksgiving meals, Christmas toy assistance, and holiday food programs.

Some seasonal programs require advance registration, and residents are encouraged to contact the Salvation Army for additional details.

Volunteers Always Needed

The Salvation Army is also seeking additional volunteers to assist with its community programs.

Volunteer opportunities are available for high school students completing service hours, individuals performing community service, people participating in workforce rehabilitation or reemployment programs, and residents who simply want to give back.

“We’re always looking for more volunteers,” McCord said.

Neighborhood Market and Senior Programs

Corps Sergeant Major Jim Lent also highlighted several additional programs offered through the Salvation Army.

The Neighborhood Market is held every third Friday and provides drive-through food distribution while supplies last.

The Salvation Army also hosts a Women’s Ministry program on Wednesdays at 10 a.m.

Senior Bingo is held during the first two Fridays of each month at 10 a.m. The program is free to attend, and prizes are available.

Lent encouraged local seniors to participate, describing the program as a fun opportunity to socialize and enjoy time with others in the community.

Continued Commitment to the Community

McCord and Lent emphasized that the Salvation Army’s mission is centered on serving the needs of the community and welcoming anyone who may need assistance or would like to volunteer.

For more information about programs, volunteer opportunities, or upcoming events, residents may contact the Salvation Army at its Hanford location on East Ivy Street.