Salvation Army urges community support as summer donations decline

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — The Salvation Army of Bowling Green is asking the community to continue giving this summer as seasonal donations decline while the need for assistance remains steady.

Capt. Joshua Keaton, who recently began serving as corps officer in Bowling Green alongside his wife, Capt. Amanda Keaton, said the summer slowdown is something Salvation Army locations across the country experience each year.

“People are going on vacation. Different things of that nature take place,” Keaton said. “We see a large amount of donations coming in at Christmas, but the need never stops. It happens 365 days throughout the year.”

The Salvation Army provides food assistance, emergency financial assistance, shelter, youth programs and other services to individuals and families facing difficult circumstances.

Keaton said when donations decrease, the organization continues serving those in need with the resources available while also working alongside other local agencies to connect families with additional support.

“We do our best with what we can,” Keaton said. “Whether it’s volunteers coming in to help out or there’s a monetary donation dropped off or gifting cans, we do what we can to help those that come to us in need.”

The organization says financial contributions are especially important because they allow staff to respond quickly to the community’s greatest needs, including helping families keep food on the table, pay utility bills and provide emergency shelter.

“What the community can do right now is a monetary donation,” Keaton said. “If they feel so inclined to give this summer, to help keep food on someone’s table, to help keep their lights on, or to help shelter someone within the shelter. It all goes to a good cause.”

According to the Salvation Army, its Bowling Green corps served more than 14,000 people in 2025, providing 54,846 meals, distributing 2,629 food boxes, supplying 3,581 personal hygiene kits and providing 18,863 nights of shelter. The organization also helped 46 households with utility assistance and provided Christmas toys to 5,554 children.

Keaton said many people associate charitable giving with the holiday season, but families continue needing help throughout the year.

“Need knows no end,” he said. “Need doesn’t care where you are in your life. It can happen. If you’re in need, we’re here for you to help you in any way that we possibly can.”

Those interested in making a financial contribution can donate online at SalvationArmyBowlingGreen.org, mail a donation to P.O. Box 796, Bowling Green, KY 42102, or volunteer with the organization. More information is available by calling (270) 843-3485.