Mission Statement

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach Jesus Christ’s gospel and meet human needs without discrimination.

The Salvation Army Midland Division serves the most vulnerable in 150+ counties throughout Missouri and Southern Illinois. In the Greater St. Louis region, TSA Midland Division provides hope, help, and healing on a path to stability and self-sufficiency through our operation of:
· Disaster services;
· Substance abuse and addiction treatment and rehabilitation;
· Transitional and permanent housing;
· Shelters for families and/or individuals;
· Community centers and social service sites;
· Food pantries and thrift stores;
· Tutoring and other youth services, including Spark Academy, Angel Tree, and Camp Mihaska;
· Pathway of Hope, a program instilling sustainable budgeting and life choices to help clients avoid crises;
Pathway to Health, a collaboration with Hospitals to ensure marginalized populations receive proper health care and self-sustainability to become stronger, healthier individuals long term.

Impact

The Salvation Army takes a holistic approach to Doing the Most Good by providing more than 100,000 individuals and families in the St. Louis region with shelter and housing assistance, meals, disaster and emergency services and support, substance abuse rehabilitation, and educational programs and camps.

Most recently, Dana Brown Charitable Trust grants have been awarded to Spark Academy programs. This youth development program focuses on four key pillars in young individuals’ lives: Community (Belonging): Spark Academy creates a supportive community where youth feel valued and connected. Spark (Giftedness): It ignites young people’s unique talents and interests. Responsibility (Service): The program instills a sense of responsibility and empathy, encouraging youth to serve others. Depth (Character Development): Spark Academy fosters spiritual formation and strong character, equipping youth to navigate challenges with resilience.

At the heart of the Ferguson Community Empowerment Center, Spark Academy addresses critical youth needs: Community Engagement. It fosters a sense of belonging and active participation within the community. Academic Success: Offering enrichment activities focusing on literacy, STEAM, and mathematics. Social Emotional Support: The program provides life skills training, addressing mental health and emotional well-being. Transition to Productive Adulthood: Spark Academy emphasizes character education, instilling values like respect, responsibility, empathy, and integrity.

Since 2017, Spark Academy has served over 125 youth, becoming a valuable community resource. It seeks support from the Dana Brown Charitable Trust to sustain and expand its impact. Funding will be allocated to vital operational needs: Nutritional Support: Daily snacks or light meals for students’ well-being. Educational Materials: Curriculum support, educational materials, tablets, and art supplies. Project-Based Learning: Ready to teach curriculum STEM and STEAM project kits and craft project materials to foster creativity and hands-on learning. Knowledge Enrichment: Access to diverse learning books, from photography to gardening, music, and cooking.

This grant request underscores Spark Academy’s dedication to nurturing engaged, empowered, and responsible citizens in the Ferguson community. With Dana Brown Charitable Trust’s support, Spark Academy continues to empower young individuals, enabling them to thrive and positively contribute to their community.