Who: The Salvation Army of Galveston County

What:For 115 years, The Salvation Army has served the residents of Galveston County in times of disaster and need. To commemorate this milestone, The Salvation Army of Galveston County will celebrate the official opening of its new Center of Hope with a dedication ceremony.

Where: New location – 605 51st Street, Galveston, TX 77551

When: Wednesday, April 4, 2 p.m.

Details: The Center of Hope will house families and the homeless as well as offer training programs supporting drug and alcohol rehabilitation and life skills classes. The 125-bed facility serves residents of Galveston County and includes an expanded thrift store and warehouse, dining room and kitchen, classrooms, administrative offices and chapel. The Center of Hope also is wheelchair accessible. The former facility was limited to 100 beds and was unable to house families with children.

Through a capital campaign which began in 2006, The Salvation Army raised $5.3 million to build the new Center of Hope. The organization is still raising capital funds as it has a shortfall of $1 million which is the estimated selling cost for their former facility located at 2228 Broadway in Galveston.

About The Salvation Army of Galveston County

In 2011, The Salvation Army of Galveston County provided lodging to 41,598 individuals and served 91,217 meals to low income families and the homeless. The Salvation Army has provided services in Galveston County for 115 years and took a critical role in the 1900 Storm and, more recently, in Galveston County’s recovery following Hurricane Ike which devastated the area in September 2008.