The experience of working (volunteering) with the Salvation Army in Carmarthen

The Salvation Army is a Christian Church which works internationally in over 128 countries around the world, with over 15,000 churches and over a million soldiers! It was founded in 1865 by William and Catherine Booth on the impoverished Victorian streets of east London.

Its work involves sharing the Word and preaching, responding to major disasters around the world and addressing the requirements of those in need locally. It runs homes for children, young people and adults; much emphasis is placed on the homeless, refugees, those living with addiction (in all its forms) and also in tracing families.

The Salvation Army opened a base on Blue Street in Carmarthen in 1885 and worked diligently in the town until the 40s. Another building is a community centre, which opens on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and offers all types of services. Other meetings are held by appointment. I started volunteering for the Salvation Army in 2013.

I am a Christian, a member of a Congregational chapel and currently a deacon. After retiring from IT work in 2011, I had a difficult period, moving from a very busy position of responsibility to having no routine and nothing to do. One unwise choice was to seek solace in the bottle.

As my plight got worse, I reached out for help. Thank God, I was directed to the Living Room in Cardiff, under the care of Wynford Ellis Owen. With their help, and the help of my family, I am happy with my lot today. At the start of my recovery, I met the Salvation Army’s Captain in Carmarthen who became a friend, and I now help others at the centre every Tuesday. We have an open door policy and support is offered in a number of ways; a cup of tea and a chat, deeper one-to-one sessions in private, shower facilities and clean clothes, financial advice and help with forms, a Sunday school session, a hot lunch and an opportunity to socialise.

Training in numerous areas is offered: safety, cleanliness, rules, addiction, first aid... The Captain is in charge of everything, as well as the Christian service on Sundays.

It is a privilege to play a very small part of this hugely important service that the Salvation Army provides to the people of Carmarthen. I am grateful for the way I was led here – and all because I opened up, and shared my story.

So, if you are worried about something, share it and then……

or, if you have the opportunity, offer your ear to listen to a stranger’s pain!