New Albany, IN – The Salvation Army Southern Indiana announced a new fundraising drive that could bring an additional $125,000 to families struggling with the rising cost of living. An anonymous donor pledged to match every contribution made during August, September and October, effectively doubling the impact of each dollar given.
Local families benefit from the Keep Hope Alive campaign
Christina Poindexter, a single mother of three boys and a full‑time college student, shared how the organization’s Pathway program has helped her gain financial stability. “You got to want it. I want better for me and my kids,” Poindexter said. She explained that the program teaches budgeting, credit management and provides direct assistance with winter heating bills.
Poindexter’s story reflects a growing trend, according to Capt. Heidi Strand, the Salvation Army’s regional leader. “We are noticing an unprecedented increase in the need that is in our community,” Strand said. The agency serves six southern Indiana counties and has seen a surge in requests for food, rent and utility assistance as gas prices and grocery costs climb.
How the matching gift works
Every dollar donated to the Keep Hope Alive campaign between August 1 and October 31 will be matched, dollar for dollar, until the $125,000 cap is reached. The matched funds will be allocated to food assistance, rent and utility aid, emergency disaster response, long‑term case management, and programming for seniors, youth and families.
In addition to the ongoing campaign, WLKY will partner with the Salvation Army for a telethon on September 23. All donations collected during the broadcast will also be eligible for the matching grant.
Breaking generational cycles
For Poindexter, the campaign represents more than short‑term relief; it offers a chance to break a cycle of poverty that has persisted in her family for generations. “I’m very appreciative of this program, and I hope more people want to donate to it, because it’s going to help more people like me,” she said.
Capt. Strand emphasized that the organization’s goal is to sustain support throughout the year, not just during the holiday season. “We want to keep that support going all year, so families can rely on us when they need it most,” she added.
How to contribute
Donors can give online through the Salvation Army Southern Indiana website or by calling the dedicated donation line. Contributions made during the campaign period will automatically be counted toward the matching goal. Community members are encouraged to spread the word and help close the gap between need and resources.
The Keep Hope Alive campaign runs through October, giving residents ample time to make a difference in the lives of their neighbors.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
