Salvation Army Facility No Longer Homeless - Pittsburgh Temple Corps Worship and Service To Dedicate Building - Public Invited

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Sep 21, 2011, 07:15 ET

CARNEGIE, Pa., Sept. 21, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- After more than five years of intense research and planning, The Salvation Army's Pittsburgh Temple Corps Worship and Service Center is moving into its new home. Previously located in the former downtown Pittsburgh's Divisional Headquarters building, the new facility is now at 1060 McNeilly Road in Mt. Lebanon. The public is invited to share in dedication services on Sunday, October 2nd at 2:30 PM.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110412/MM81995LOGO)

"For many years, there has been concern and discussion about the location of the Pittsburgh Temple Corps Worship and Service Center, said Major William H. Bode, The Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Divisional Commander. "Essentially, there is no neighborhood downtown, leaving our facility largely vacant on weekends and evenings. It wasn't an efficient use of our resources."

In 2006, The Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Division engaged The Timothy Group and began a comprehensive program study of their Allegheny County facilities. Based on population trends, family demographics, client need and the viability of existing properties, several significant improvements were made. The downtown Pittsburgh's Divisional Headquarters was moved to Carnegie. The Family Caring Center was relocated to an existing facility in East Liberty and The Salvation Army Social Services Department moved Uptown. The former Chartiers Valley Worship and Service Center was streamlined, moved and became the Chartiers Valley Service Center. The new Salvation Army Pittsburgh Temple Corps Worship and Service Center is one of the final pieces of the program study puzzle.

The relocation of the Pittsburgh Temple, to the new location provides the opportunity for a wide variety of ministries and social services that meet the social, educational, emotional, physical and spiritual needs of a much greater population. Because of the proximity to schools, nursing homes and many community groups, collaboration of some youth, senior and music programming have already begun. One of the facility's primary goals is to work together to enhance leadership forces, outreach effectiveness and memberships. Programs and services to be offered include Sunday School and worship; character building programs for children, youth, adults and families; Bible studies; music programs; Bible Bowl, senior citizen services; and other current youth and adult ministries and human services support will be provided for those needing a food pantry and other needs.

The handicap-accessible facility encompasses 28,000 square feet and provides a 200 seat chapel, gymnasium, nursery, computer center, Class rooms, dining room with full kitchen, a playground, and an all-ages fitness center, partially funded by the Pittsburgh Steelers. "My wife, Jan and I have already been welcomed with open and loving arms," said Major Tim Duperree, Pittsburgh Temple Corps Worship and Service Center Commanding Officer. "We are excited to extend a heartfelt invitation and share this beautiful facility with our neighbors and volunteers are always welcome."

Red Kettle income does not fund Salvation Army building projects. Both a church and a social service organization, The Salvation Army began in London, England in 1865. Today, it provides critical services in 124 countries worldwide. The 28-county Western Pennsylvania Division serves thousands of needy families through a wide variety of support services. To learn more about The Salvation Army in Western Pennsylvania, log onto www.salvationarmy-wpa.org. The Salvation Army . . . Doing the most good . . . for the most people . . . in the most need.

SOURCE The Salvation Army