Salvation Army serves El Centro’s less fortunate

El Centro’s Salvation Army feeds over 100 people Monday through Friday.

The organization says that number doubles towards the end of each month.

Those in need of a meal can count on a warm lunch every weekday from the nonprofit.

“Today’s lunch consists of chicken breast, mashed potatoes, and a little dessert,” said Mike, El Centro Resident.

Mike, like many others who live on the streets, walks several blocks in the scorching sun just to get his plate of food every day.

“I’m in the streets, so the Salvation Army benefits me in the way where I come and eat. They feed us, so it helps, it helps us a lot, said, Mike.

The Salvation Army says it’s not just the homeless they feed, but anyone who is in need.

The kitchen starts serving food at 12:00 p.m., but people start making a line outside of the salvation army at least thirty minutes before it opens.

“I am very grateful, they help us a lot. There is a lot of seniors who come because they’re not able to make food for themselves,” said Jesus Burgeno, El Centro resident.

The kitchen cook, Zochil Beltran said she enjoys serving the El Centro community.

“They are so grateful, there are people waiting outside in the heat for almost an hour, they wait for the kitchen to open. I love my job, I enjoy serving them every day and that keeps me motivated,” said Beltran.

Beltran picks up donations every day at 8:00 a.m. from local restaurants and grocery stores.

At 9:00 a.m., she hits the kitchen and begins cooking for the busy day ahead.

The Salvation Army says none of these meals would be possible without the donations they receive. The nonprofit says people willing to donate can do so, at their donation center, located on the corner of Fourth and Ross in El Centro.