Many organizations are stepping up to protect children from abuse in Cascade County including one program, which opened its doors for an after-school program.
“Everybody in their own way is dealing with difficulty at home, whatever it looks like, whatever that sounds like,” Salvation Army Corps Officer Mark King said.
Every day, at approximately 3 p.m., several kids involved in the Salvation Army after-school program walk into the building with a smile while eager to learn and play with friends.
“They are rambunctious, they are loud," King said.
Partnering with Sunnyside and Lincoln Elementary, students catch a ride to the Salvation Army, where they get extra help with homework, do arts and crafts, read, and get a chance to be a kid.
“Kids need a place to be kids, and to be encouraged to be themselves and to define themselves, to know that there is purpose and hope,” King said.
The classroom can hold up to 20 kids from 2nd through 6th grade.
“We really believe that helping kids succeed in the classroom is going to help them succeed down the line in life.”
King said the program needs volunteers. Whether you are in high school, college, retired, or have a few hours a day to spend with the kids.
“Really just come alongside of these kids just for some moral support, and pour some love and appreciation into them," King said. "Let them know that they are valued and people care and that there is hope."
King wants people to know that any child from any school is allowed to attend the after-school program, but there is only transportation from Sunnyside and Lincoln as of now.
“If the Salvation Army for just a few hours a day can provide a safe place, a loving place, an encouraging place, then that’s what I want to be a part of,” King said.
If you are interested in signing your child up for the program, you can call the Salvation Army at 406-453-0391 or get in touch with your child’s school principal to learn more.
