NATIONAL SALVATION ARMY WEEK: AN OVERVIEW

"Among Americans, The Salvation Army has long been a symbol of wholehearted dedication to the cause of human brotherhood. In time of war, the men and women of this organization have brought to those serving their country far from home, friendliness and warm concern. In the quieter days of peace, their work has been a constant reminder to us all that each of us is neighbor and kin to all Americans. Giving freely of themselves, the men and women of The Salvation Army have won the respect of us all."

President Dwight D. Eisenhower
(1953 - 1961)

For nearly 75 years, from 1880 to 1954, The Salvation Army in the United States grew into a strong force for good in the lives of Americans everywhere. During this time, The Salvation Army transformed from small bands of uniformed men and women, calling out to the tired, the poor, the huddled masses of this growing country, to a large group with the capacity to enable change.

It is this transformation that the Eighty-Third Congress of the United States recognized. That year, they declared --- and President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed --- the week of November 28 to December 4, 1954, as the first National Salvation Army Week.

Nowadays, the dates have changed --- National Salvation Army Week is now typically observed the second or third week of May --- but the work of The Army remains the same: to serve those in need without discrimination. Today, National Salvation Army Week is marked by public-relations initiatives and special events designed to raise public awareness and to give thanks to The Salvation Army's donors, volunteers and other supporters.

In 2012, National Salvation Army Week is May 14-20th.