Info and photos provided by Mike Sutton
The Salvation Army of LaPorte celebrated its grand re-opening on Thursday, April 25, at the headquarters at 3240 Monroe St.
The Salvation Army of LaPorte can trace its roots back to May 1888. After opening, then closing, the Salvation Army has been present in the community since 1904. Originally located on C Street and then on State Street, the Salvation Army acquired its present building, formerly LaPorte FOP headquarters, in 2007. Moving in 2009 to the Monroe Street location resulted in both challenges and opportunities. The building, parking lot and most recent renovations are due in large part to a generous bequest of the late Charles T. Dye.
The funds donated by Dye that were not used for the building purchase were placed in a capital improvement fund for future additions and improvements. Additional donations were also received over the years for the fund. No money donated for the operational funding of the Salvation Army, Christmas kettles or the Vision Banquet were used for this remodeling, which added a chapel; an area for private offices, classrooms and food pantry; and a multipurpose/banquet and meeting room. The kitchen was also upgraded.
Today, the Salvation Army is proud of its community involvement with the Backpack Program for Children, an open food pantry and a clothing distribution program. The SA provides programs and assistance to the community and citizens of LaPorte County.
The April 25 dedication service included: presentation of flags by Karlene Haro and Debbie Stout, senior soldiers; opening prayer by Keith Batzel, senior soldier; greeting/introductions by Envoy Greg Irwin; opening remarks and special presentation to Pastor Billy Nickrand by Envoy Greg Irwin; hymn – “O God of Love Eternal” by Brass Band Ensemble; The Salvation Army of LaPorte history by Envoy Bethany Irwin; dedicatory address by Lt. Col. Richard Amick from Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters; Children’s Choir – “If You’re Happy and You Know It”; presentation of keys by Major Thomas Bowers, district commander; act of dedication by Major Jackie Bowers; responsive reading and prayer of dedication by Envoy Greg Irwin; hymn “To God Be the Glory” led by Brass Band Ensemble.
The dedication service was followed by a ribbon cutting arranged by the Greater LaPorte Chamber of Commerce. Tours and light refreshments followed the ribbon cutting.
“Once again we want to thank the community of LaPorte for all the great support we receive to make this ministry a reality,” Envoys Greg and Bethany Irwin said. “We are excited about our updated facility and feel that it will help us serve the city in a greater way. Please come by for a tour sometime!”
For more information about the LaPorte Salvation Army, visit www.salaporte.org.
