The needs expressed at the Salvation Army Service Center in Troy are great throughout the year so Kim May, director, is continually looking for ways to meet those needs.

“Every day, we have people who come to us with genuine needs and we meet them as best we can,” she said. “We depend on donations, contributions, Thrift Shop sales, fundraisers and support from the United Way for our operations.”

The troubled economy has taken its toll on The Salvation Army just like it has most everything else.

“We are having to do more fundraising than ever before,” May said. “Back in the spring, we sold campstew made especially for us by Carter Sanders who is famous for his camp stew. The camp stew sale was such a success that we are going to try it again.”

Tickets are now on sale at the Salvation Army Thrift Store in Troy and by the organization’s board members.

Tickets for a quart of Carter’s Camp stew are $10 each. The camp stew will be available for pickup between the hours of 1 and 6 p.m. on Nov. 5 at the Salvation Army Thrift Store on South Brundidge Street in Troy.

May said adoption forms for the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree are also available at the Thrift Store.

“We have accepted and screened applications for our Angel Tree,” May said.

“Each angel on the tree represents a child in need. We encourage those who can to adopt one of these children so that they will have a more joyous holiday season. All you need to do is stop by the Thrift Store and adopt an angel for this Christmas.”

Other ways to support the local Salvation Army include making donations to its food bank.

“The Boy Scout troops in Troy, Lockheed Martin, WTBF and Army Aviation all support our food bank and there is always a need for food,” May said.

“We also have churches and individuals who are regular supporters and we appreciate them all.”

With the holiday season, right around the corner, May said she is beginning to encourage individuals and groups to volunteer as bell ringers for the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign.

“We start ringing on Nov. 21 and stop on Christmas Eve,” May said.

“We don’t ring on Sundays. We always need bell ringers and anyone who is interested can get more information by calling 808-1069 or stopping by the Thrift Shop.”