The Salvation Army is a Christian outreach to the community, helping those who most need it. The Salvation Army is an integral part of the Christian Church, although distinctive in government and practice. The Army’s doctrine follows the mainstream of Christian belief and its articles of faith emphasize God’s saving purposes. Its objects are ‘the advancement of the Christian religion… of education, the relief of poverty, and other charitable objects beneficial to society or the community of mankind as a whole.’

Millions of people benefit each year from Army programs in the United States. These include religious services, comprehensive youth and adult group activities, rehabilitation centers for alcoholics and drug abusers, family social services, residences and programs for senior citizens, homes for unwed mothers, residences for working adults, correctional services, Christmas assistance, missing persons services, transient and moving persons service, summer camps, community centers, emergency and disaster services. Programs are adapted to local needs and subject to continuing evaluation, with new services established according to community requirements.