The Pike County Salvation Army Service Center in Troy will join Salvation Army centers all across the nation in celebrating National Salvation Army Week, May 13-19.

Kim May, center director, said that, in support of the weeklong recognition of the Salvation Army, the local service center and thrift store will offer incentives for people to visit the center at 509 South Brundidge St. in Troy.

On Monday, the first 10 customers at the center will receive a door prize. On Wednesday, all clothes, shoes and purses will be half price for seniors 59 and older.

“This is the 59th year celebration of National Salvation Army Week, so that’s why I chose ages 59 and over for the half-price promotion,” May said. “On Saturday, May 18, we’ll have hotdogs, chips and drinks for all of those who visit our thrift store.

“Everyone is invited to visit the Pike County Salvation Army Service Center and Thrift Store during National Salvation Army Week.”

The Salvation Army’s motto is “Doing the most good” and, in order to “do the most good,” local support of the Salvation Army Service Centers is vital.

“We want to take the opportunity of National Salvation Army Week to bring people into our center to learn more about the Salvation Army and its services,” May said.

The week of Nov. 18 – Dec. 14, 1954 was declared by the United States Congress to be the first National Salvation Army Week.

“In proclaiming that week National Salvation Army Week, President Dwight D. Eisenhower said the Salvation Army had long been a symbol of wholehearted dedication to the cause of brotherhood in times of war and in times of peace,” May said. “He reminded everyone that each of us is neighbor and kin to all Americans.”

May said the dates of National Salvation Army Week have changed but the work of the organization is the same, “to serve those in need without discrimination.”

The Salvation Army was founded as the Christian Mission by William Booth, a British Methodist preacher, and his wife, Catherine, on July 5, 1865 in London.

The mission of the organization was to wage war against the evils of poverty and religious indifference with military efficiency.

The Christian Mission was renamed the Salvation Army in 1878. The first United States branch opened in Pennsylvania in 1880. The Salvation Army was instrumental in providing for those in need during the Great Depression and distinguished itself through its work with the armed forces during World Wars I and II.