Scott City Church to Hold Volunteer Training for the Salvation Army

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — Restoration Community Church in Scott City is hosting a volunteer training session to prepare community members for work at the Salvation Army in Cape Girardeau warming center, working towards safe and effective support for those in need during the winter months.

Senior Pastor Bob Lenz discusses the importance of equipping volunteers with the skills necessary to handle the challenges they may encounter.

“What does it mean to be part of a warming center?” Lenz says. “You’re dealing with people who may have mental illness or other needs, so proper training is essential to ensure they are well taken care of.”

Lenz says that providing shelter is more than just offering a place to stay. “It’s more than just stuffing people in a room. We have to consider safety, dignity, and proper care.”

Captain Lily Reinier of the Salvation Army in Cape Girardeau talks about the importance of community collaboration.

“It takes an entire community coming together to help,” Reinier says. “No one organization can do it alone. Volunteers make a real difference in people’s lives.”

She says that warming centers offer more than shelter. “They provide snacks, coffee, a hot meal on some days, and—most importantly—a sense of dignity.”

The volunteer training will take place at Restoration Community Church in Scott City on Monday, Jan. 20, at 6 p.m. Lenz encouraged those in need of shelter to check in at the Salvation Army, where warm cots are ready for anyone.