SALVATIONIST.CA/INTERNATIONAL-DEVELOPMENT
GLOBALLINK TERRITORIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT IN CANADA AND BERMUDA
Robyn Goodyear
looks over child
ren kept busy by
Captains Loyda
COMING TOGETHER IN EL SALVADOR
I
n my role as the international project support co-ordinator in the international development department, I was privileged to visit El Salvador, part of The Salvation Army’s Latin America North Territory, where I learned the deeper meaning of the term “community development.” After stepping off the plane in San Salvador and meeting the regional officers, Captains Mario and Loyda, the sense of pride and the love they have for their community were immediately apparent. That trend continued as we travelled to The Salvation Army’s ministries in Usulután. The officers explained that in El Salvador, crime, trafficking and recruitment for gangs are major concerns for families in El Salvador, especially in major urban areas.
FALL 2023
and Mario in Usul
atán, El Salvador .
By Robyn Goodyear
The Salvation Army’s corps in Usulután provides programming for children ages 514, including educational support and special activities such as arts and crafts, physical education, dance and drama. The educational assistance supports children’s learning and reduces early dropout rates. The children receive nutritious meals and snacks at the corps, which are often the only meal they have in a day. The program provides a safe space for children during the day when not in school, reducing the likelihood of gangs recruiting them.
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