It was an honour to attend the Salvation Army’s re-opening event recently, which was a celebration of the charity’s upcoming move into their original building on Duncombe Street, which is on the East Marsh.
The building was originally opened in 1888 by the Salvation Army, and they have embarked on the major project to refurbish it and ensure it is fit to deliver services to our residents. In doing this, they have preserved an integral piece of Grimsby’s heritage, by putting the building back into use.
Major Alison Gardner, one of main drivers behind this project, said: “We wanted to come back [to the East Marsh] and be part of the community, to see where we can fill gaps with the resources we have. We are prepared to change our approach as the needs of the community come along.”
I also discussed with Alison how the presence of the Salvation Army has changed, particularly in Grimsby, as she reminisces how in the past, many people in the community have had interactions with the charity in some way. She wants those people to be forthcoming and to share their stories about how the Salvation Army has operated in their lives, to help them in moving forward on this new adventure, ensuring that they can provide the most effective help to Grimsby’s residents.
The refurbished building is stunning and will be a great place to worship, meet for coffee and snacks, and feel safe and secure. The Salvation Army will open their new premises from 26th April, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am-4pm.
I want to thank every person involved in this project and look forward to re-visiting the centre once it opens. For any more information or to contact the Salvation Army in Grimsby, you can call 01472 403348.
