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Jason Linton Ed (2)

Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope Welcomes New Executive Director

Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope is excited to Welcome New Executive Director Jason Linton!
 
The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope announced the appointment of Jason Linton as it’s new Executive Director, effective August 12th. He succeeds Major Danny Pinksen, who after 4 years has been stationed to his new appointment in British Columbia.
 
“We are thrilled to welcome Jason as our new Executive Director”, said Community Council Chair Gerry Pocock. “His extensive leadership experience and deep passion for our mission makes him the ideal candidate to lead the organization into the future. “
 
Jason brings significant experience in leadership within the nonprofit and charitable sectors, and couples this with a Human Relations background that certainly will be useful in this role.
 
“ I truly value and am honored to be chosen as the new Executive Director and am so very excited to be part of such critical services in the Windsor community.” says Executive Director, Jason Linton. “ I am keenly aware of the impact this work has on our clients and children, but also understand many of the challenges it can bring. It is not easy work, but the resilience, resolve, and desire to help those in need makes working for the Army more than just a job.”
 
Jason holds a B.A. from the University of Guelph, a post graduate certificate in Human Resource Management from Mohawk College, and a certificate in Leadership Essentials from Booth University College.
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BRINGING COMMUNITY TOGETHER AT SUMMER BBQ

The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope hosted its annual Sally Fest summer BBQ on July 31st, bringing in over 190 community members. The event was hailed as a resounding success, fostering a sense of togetherness and community spirit.

“We are thrilled with the turnout and energy at this year’s Sally Fest, despite the extremely hot temperatures” said Shannon Barnwell, Community Engagement Specialist. “It was wonderful to see so many familiar and new faces come together to enjoy good food, listen to music and connect with one another. Events like these are an important part of building a strong, vibrant community.”

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Chaplain, Dale Sanger

The summer BBQ featured a variety of classic BBQ fare including burgers, fries, fruit and dessert. Salvation Army’s Chaplain dusted off his guitar and played a variety of classic hits throughout the event to create a festive atmosphere. Children enjoyed the dedicated playing area with games and activities.

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In addition to the food and entertainment, the event also highlighted the work of its longtime supporters, The Rotary Club of Windsor (1918). The Club has been involved in the beloved community event for over 10 years and have created a strong relationship, which they plan to continue their involvement for years to come.

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Hope and Healing on the Road to Recovery

Life has been a journey filled with both profound challenges and incredible resilience for Wesley. Growing up he faced the grip of addiction, a battle that intensified after his parents’ passing left him without a home, and serving time in prison turned his quest for stability into an ongoing struggle.

Amidst these hardships, a beacon of hope emerged through The Salvation Army Windsor Centre of Hope. Their unwavering support not only gave Wesley a place to live and helped him confront his addiction but also provided him with renewed hope and a promise of a brighter future. After being released from prison, Wesley stayed in the emergency shelter for two months before moving to the residential housing floor, where he now benefits from spiritual care and recreational programs.

One of the programs keeping Wesley busy has him tending to the Centre of Hope’s 300-cubic-foot community garden which is filled with tomatoes, lettuce, eggplants, cucumbers, and chives. As he waters the plants and weeds the garden beds, he finds solace in the routine and purpose it provides.

“I feel happier, and it brightens up my day to take care of something that I know is giving back to the community,” Wesley shares with a smile. “Anything that grows and survives has hope for everyone.”

The garden’s vegetables are used to provide fresh food for the Centre of Hope’s residents, enhancing meal quality, and fostering a tight-knit community. In addition to his work in the garden, Wesley takes out the garbage every single day, maintaining a clean and healthy environment for everyone. His commitment and positive attitude have not gone unnoticed, and he serves as an inspiration to others who are facing similar struggles.

“It keeps me off the street. It keeps me off the drugs. I quit drinking and I haven’t had a drink in over a year,” he proudly states. His sobriety is a significant recovery milestone, and tending to the garden plays a transformative role in maintaining this progress.

“This garden is a holistic activity that teaches participants a practical skill to learn how to grow and eat wholesome, healthy foods,” says Windsor Centre of Hope chaplain Dale Sanger. “It also provides an opportunity for those we support to grow both personally and spiritually.”

– Story by Chris McGregor

Wesley Garden Story
Wesley Garden Story
Poh 2024

Pathway of Hope- Francesco

Francesco Cerullo: A Journey of Hope and Transformation with the Pathway of Hope Program

Francesco Cerullo’s transformative journey with The Salvation Army began on January 17, 2023, when he sought assistance from the organization’s outreach services. Francesco Cerullo’s journey with The Salvation Army’s outreach services has not only brought about tangible improvements in his life but has also fostered a remarkable transformation in his self-sufficiency and independence. Before embarking on his Pathway of Hope journey, Francesco faced numerous challenges that hindered his ability to navigate life independently. Through the dedicated efforts of the outreach service, Francesco not only secured stable housing, financial stability, and essential support services but also underwent a profound personal transformation.

On September 20, 2023, Francesco officially enrolled in The Salvation Army’s Pathway of Hope (POH) program. This marked a significant transition toward more comprehensive and personalized case management services. Today, Francesco stands as a beacon of self-sufficiency. The personalized case management provided by the Pathway of Hope program empowered him to take charge of his life. Through enrollment in cost-saving programs and comprehensive financial guidance, Francesco gained the skills and knowledge to manage his finances effectively.
Moreover, The Pathway of Hope’s support in securing increased income through applications for social services has allowed Francesco to stand on his own feet financially. This newfound financial stability has translated into increased autonomy, giving Francesco the ability to make decisions about his life with confidence and independence.
Crucially, the program’s emphasis on mental health support and collaboration with various providers has equipped Francesco with the tools to manage his emotional well-being independently. He now approaches life with a positive and resilient mindset, demonstrating a level of self-care and mental well-being that was not possible before the intervention.
In terms of daily living, Francesco has become more self-reliant. The skills and resources provided by The Salvation Army have enabled him to perform tasks and manage responsibilities that were once daunting. From handling daily chores to making informed decisions about his future, Francesco has blossomed into a self-sufficient individual.
As a result of the comprehensive support provided by The Salvation Army’s Pathway of Hope Program, Francesco is not only living in a more stable environment but is actively participating in and contributing to his community. The Pathway of Hope program has not only addressed his immediate needs but has also equipped him with the tools and confidence to navigate life independently, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency that will undoubtedly shape his future positively.