Caring Causes - SA Gaming

  Several Salvation Army service centers have introduced a groundbreaking program, "SA Gaming," aimed at bringing together children, parents, and community members in a safe and welcoming environment, following the challenges posed by the global pandemic. SA Gaming is set to revolutionize the way families engage with Salvation Army service centers while fostering a sense of camaraderie, fun, and connection through the medium of video games.

 

Because the pandemic has dramatically altered the dynamics of how families interacted and connected with their communities, safety concerns have limited social interactions and gatherings. The Salvation Army recognized the need to adapt and evolve its services to cater to the changing needs of its constituents. Enter "SA Gaming"—a program that not only revitalizes the spirit of togetherness but also aligns with The Salvation Army's commitment to serving and empowering the community.

 

SA Gaming is designed to combine the allure of video gaming with the warm embrace of community engagement, and aims to draw families back into the service centers, rekindling connections that may have been strained during the pandemic. The Lakewood Salvation Army service center was one of the first to jump on board the new program.

 

"We understand that the pandemic has left a void in how families connect and engage with their community," said Lieutenant Adam Hines, who co-manages the service center with his wife Amanda. "SA Gaming is not just about playing video games; it's about creating a safe space where families can come together, bond, and create lasting memories. We believe we can help bridge the gap that the pandemic may have caused."

 

In addition to food and drinks, the SA Gaming program will feature state-of-the-art gaming consoles, a diverse range of family-friendly video games, and a dedicated team of staff and volunteers trained to ensure a positive and inclusive gaming experience for everyone. The program, which meets twice a month and requires pre-registration, has proven to be so successful that Hines has requested more consoles and screens.

 

The Salvation Army service center locations on Central and Lyndale Avenues in Minneapolis and Noble Parkway in Brooklyn Park have also launched SA Gaming programs, and are seeing similar outcomes. For more information on the full range of social service programs offered by The Salvation Army, please visit SalvationArmyNorth.org.

 

 

 

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The Salvation Army Northern Division last year helped 300,000 people overcome poverty, addiction and economic hardship through a range of social services, meeting human needs without discrimination. This year, new struggles caused by food shortages, inflation, increased energy costs and the threat of eviction have elevated the numbers of those seeking assistance.

 

By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army Northern Division is #DoingTheMostGood at 77 operation centers in Minnesota and North Dakota. For more information about The Salvation Army Northern Division, please visit SalvationArmyNorth.org.