The Salvation Army Tifton Service Center is currently taking canned food donations.

TIFTON — After closing their doors to comply with regulations in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Salvation Army Tifton Service Center is now accepting donations. Both food, clothing and household items are now being accepted, but furniture is not at this time. Monetary donations are also being accepted.

“We ask that donations be bagged or boxed and labeled with a date. They can be placed in bins outside,” said Kelley Bedore, the director of the Tifton Salvation Army Service Center. She asks people to date their donations so that they know when 72 hours have passed and it is safe for them to pick up and take into the center.

Donations of canned food are especially needed, according to Bedore. The Salvation Army Tifton Service Center is preparing food boxes and passed out 100 boxes last week. They are especially focusing on the elderly or anyone who needs food but cannot get it by any another means.

“We used to have enough to help 300 to 400 families, but now our pantry is getting low,” said Bedore.

Currently, The Salvation Army Service Tifton Center is available on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon for people in need of food to pick up boxes. However, Bedore says that anyone who needs food outside of those times can call 229-386-1503 and be served.

Bedore has been partnering with Second Harvest and the United Way to make sure food is available. “We want to make sure we reach every demographic, every age group, “ she said.

Bedore also has been able to get a food truck that serves as her “cantina” for delivering  food boxes to the elderly. “I would love to be able to do hot meals.” said Bedore, “But right now I do not have the staff or equipment, but Meals on Wheels is doing a great job of that.”

Bedore says The Salvation Army Service Tifton Center is there for people who need clothing, especially the homeless. “If people are needing clothing, I have been personally getting their size and picking out outfits for them,” She said. The Salvation Army Service Tifton Center is also able to help with utilities through their partnership with Georgia Power and they also assist with rent, water and gas for homes. Bedore also says she is available if anyone needs encouragement or prayer.

The Salvation Army Tifton Service Center is located at 1205 U.S. Highway 82 E, Tifton,  31794. Monetary donations can be sent to The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 7744, Tifton, GA 31793.

For questions about donations or assistance, please call 229-386-1905.