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Salvation Army gives 5 women a new lease on life

Posted at 6:38 PM, May 26, 2016
and last updated 2016-05-27 08:52:53-04

Five young women are new graduates of the Salvation Army Employment Services Program.

The program is joint effort between the Salvation Army, Westside Ministries and Vive La Casa/Jericho Road. It's designed to help low-income individuals in the community get back on their feet.

During the training program, students have to complete a 60 hour rotation in dietary and facilities training, and learn hands-on skills. The students are also partnered up with volunteer mentors to help with resume building, mock-interviews and job search related skills.

"We talk very extensively about not just go get a job. What do you really want to do with your life? What's our passion? How can we get to it as close as possible?" Christina Schweitzer, The Salvation Army Director of Employment Services said.

The Salvation Army offers the three week program to those who are referred by the Department of Social Services. So far at least 45 people have completed this program since it started. Many are low-income struggling parents with little to no education or work experience. However, the majority leave the program with opportunities and a new lease on life.

If you would like to volunteer or donate to this program call (716) 883-9800.